Willard A. Simonis

Willard A. Simonis, 83, of Oconomowoc, WI passed away on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at his home with his loving family by his side.

Willard was born on January 25, 1938 in Laona, WI the son of Aaron and Stella (Erickson) Simonis. After school, Willard faithfully served his country in the United States Army. On October 10, 1959, Willard married Grace Wiskowski and God blessed their union with three children, Christine, Harold and Marie. Grace and Willard enjoyed many years of marriage together until her passing in 2008. Willard later met Nancy Runyard and the two would grow to be cherished companions for the rest of his life.  Willard worked maintenance in the welding industry for the majority of his working career.  He took pride in working hard and providing for his family. Along with his work, Willard had a heart for others and spent quite a bit of time volunteering at church and serving others in various ways. He was very social and enjoyed conversing and spending time with friends. He was also an avid hunter and loved being out in God’s creation. Willard was also blessed to be able to travel quite a bit and he enjoyed that opportunity very much. Above all else, Willard loved his family. He was happiest spending time with those closest to him, especially his dear grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed but forever remembered.

He is survived by: his loving companion, Nancy Runyard; his three dear children, Christine (Jerry) Hart, Harold (Carolyn) Simonis, and Marie (Scott) Brattebo; his grandchildren, Leslie (Bryant) Stone, Brian (Danielle) Hart, Melissa (Nick) Inderdahl, Nicole Simonis, Elizabeth (Dustin) Choy, and Aaron Simonis, and Carson and Spencer Brattebo; his great-grandchildren, Jack, Lola, and Stella Choy, Makenzie Inderdahl, Zachary and Brantley Simonis, and Robert Stone; and his brother, Eugene Simonis. Willard is also survived by a number of other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife, Grace; and his siblings, Harold, Leo, and Lorraine.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Willard's honor may be made to the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00AM on Tuesday, July 13, 2021 at St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church in Sullivan, WI with Fr. Mariadas Bekala presiding. Visitation will take place on Tuesday from 9:00AM until the time of mass at the church. Willard will be laid to rest in St. Mary Help of Christians Church Cemetery with full military honors immediately following the service.

Gibson Family Funeral Homes of Palmyra and Eagle, WI is serving the family. To place an online condolence please visit gibsonfuneral.com

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