Burness Bunny Eleanor Willardson

Burness Eleanor Willardson died at age 100 on Monday, May 18, 2015 from complications related to age at her residence in Santa Ana, CA. Fondly known as Bunny, she lived a full and meaningful life. She cherished her relationships, and even during challenging times, maintained an optimistic attitude; trusting the Lord to see her through adversity.

Born in Davenport, Iowa on July 5, 1914 to parents Chester and Edith Lucas, Bunny had one younger sister, Donna, who preceded her in death.

Bunny graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1932 and entered the work force immediately. For 25 years, Bunny worked at the Iowa Mutual Tornado Insurance Company. During this time she married Ed Martinson and they loved traveling abroad. Additionally, she was extremely active in the order of Eastern Star. She served as both a Worthy Matron in 1952 and was honored as the Grand Marshal of Iowa in 1956.

After Ed died, Bunny moved to California in 1970. In November of that year, Bunny joined the Garden Grove Community Church where she met her second husband, John Smith. They were married on January 28, 1972 and shared 20 wonderful years of marriage until John died in April of 1992.

Shortly after John’s death, Bunny married long-time friend, Woody Willardson, in 1995. They were blessed with four years of marriage until Woody died.

Bunny is survived by John’s four children: Gary, Jim, Carol and Cathy; their spouses: Janet, J’nise, Jerry and Ralph; 6 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Both the memorial and interment will be held on Saturday, June 13, at 11:30AM in the Tower of Hope at Christ Cathedral,13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, CA 92840