James Dean Willard

WILLARD, James D. Sr.
Portage Mr. Willard passed away Friday morning, June 29, 2007 at his home. He was born June 28, 1926 in Downers Grove, IL, one of three children to the late Floyd and Leona Parks Willard. During his high school years at Jackson High School, he was a member of the boxing team. He kept boxing after high school and later earned his Golden Gloves. Jim was a veteran of the United States Army serving during the Korean Conflict. He was last employed by Kalamazoo Plug Co. in Richland until his retirement in 1991. Following his retirement, he started American Carpet, a carpet cleaning business for several years. Jim loved the outdoors and enjoyed fishing and hunting. On June 5, 1950, he was united in marriage to Doris Flowers, who preceded him in death on July 29, 2005. Also preceding him in death are his parents and one sister, Barbara Taylor. Surviving are his 2 children, Jim Jr. Tammy Willard of Portage, and Sue Scott Wright of Montello, WI; 2 grandchildren, Brent and Amanda; one great-grandchild, Dakota; and 1 sister, Cynthia Nemitz of Jackson. In accordance with his wishes, private graveside services will be held in Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be directed to West Michigan Cancer Center, American Cancer Society, or American Heart Association. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Avenue. www.langelands.com 343-1508