Willeen "Willie" Huck

Our hearts ache with the passing of Willie, a remarkable soul who brightened our lives in countless ways. Willie, born Willeen Carol Huck on November 11, 1939, in Ohio, departed from us on January 16, 2024, at the age of 84.

Willie was the eldest child of William "Bill" Carl Huck and Alberta Mae Huck, and she grew up alongside her siblings Bonnie, and William "Bill”, also of Ohio. Willie was baptized on April 3, 1955 in the Christian Faith at the Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Columbus. She graduated from Upper Arlington High School in 1958. During her time at Ohio State University pursuing dental hygiene, Willie married Edward E. Shaffer, on December 29, 1961. Together, they embarked on a journey that took them to Oregon, California, and eventually Colorado, where they welcomed four daughters: Cynthia, Deborah, Patti, and Suzy. Following her divorce, Willie settled in Fort Collins, CO, where she not only raised her daughters but also built a career as a dental hygienist and established a small hobby farm.

Willie's life was rich with diverse interests and talents. She was an avid outdoorswoman who cherished the Rocky Mountains, finding joy in activities like camping, hiking, and biking. She even completed the 7-day Ride the Rockies bike tour multiple times, twice alongside her daughter Debbie. Willie was also a skilled seamstress, crafting prom and wedding dresses, and she had a passion for working with wool, spinning her own yarn, and creating beautiful garments.

Her love for animals was evident in the many pets she cared for over the years, including Lhasa Apso dogs, cats, llamas, chickens, ducks, turkeys, cockatiels, parakeets, cows, horses, hamsters and Angora goats. Willie was deeply committed to homesteading, engaging in activities such as farming, gardening, and animal rescue. She was also known for her artistic talents, which spanned from watercolor painting to stained glass creations.

Willie's dedication to her family was unwavering, and she took great pride in her role as a mother and grandmother. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and boundless creativity, which she passed down to her eight beloved grandchildren: Creighton, Zoe, Rylee, Glenn, Victoria, Lyndie, Annie, and Ella.

Willie retired “early” from her dental hygiene practice at the age of 75 but continued to live life to the fullest, despite facing the challenges of dementia in her later years. She spent her final months surrounded by love & prayers in Debbie's home in Windsor, passing away peacefully at the Pathways Hospice Inpatient Care Center.

Though she may be gone from our sight, her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched. We mourn the loss of Willie deeply, but we take solace in the countless memories we shared with her and the knowledge that her spirit will continue to inspire us for generations to come.

Willie's family will honor her life in a private memorial ceremony. Should you wish to attend, please reach out to the family directly for more information. Treasured memories and words of condolence are welcome at www.resthavencolorado.com.