Harrison "Gene" Willis

Harrison "Gene" Willis, of The Park at Vernon Hills, IL and formerly of Waukegan, Illinois, died Saturday, September 28th at the age of 90. Gene was a World War II veteran of the "Battle of the Bulge," 87th Infantry, Golden Acorn Division and he was a retired Senior Chief Petty Officer in the Naval Reserves. Mr. Willis was born in Ellington, Missouri and retired from Great Lakes Naval Training Center as a Chief Crane Operator. He possessed a passion and deep love for his family and friends.In addition, Gene had a love and interest in automobiles. He restored and painted his vehicles and those of many friends and family. He was formerly Secretary/Treasurer of the Lake County, Illinois Corvette Club. In his later years he developed a passion for painting and singing. Mr. Willis was the loving husband of the late Georgia (Shelby) Willis and the late Katherine (Corzine) Willis. He also leaves behind a daughter Joyce (Michael) Wade, daughter Rita (James) Bero, and son Steven (Billie Jean) Willis.He also leaves behind his seven grandchildren, Brent (Cynthia) Wade, Eddie (Mindy) Plante, Carson (Brian) Gasner, Dawn Wilkenson, Crystal Willis, Melissa (Joe) Wilkenson-Morzuch, Shelby (Aaron) Gustman, his eleven great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. His parents, George and Grace Willis; sisters and brothers, Lois, Hazel, Volley, Lewis, and Shirley preceded him in death. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 3rd at 11 amat the Marsh Funeral Home, 305 N. Cemetery Road, Gurnee, IL. Interment will be at North Shore Garden of Memories. Friends may greet the family on Wednesday evening, October 2nd from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Disabled American Veterans.