Michael Willis

Michael Mike Willis, 23, of Mansfield passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 25, 2011. Michael was born on August 11, 1987 to Jim and Betsy Willis. They previously lived in Fairview Park, Ohio and currently reside in Mansfield. Michael graduated in 2006 from Lexington High School and also graduated from Kent State University, with a BA in Business Administration and a double major in Marketing and Management. Michael was confirmed at St. John's United Church of Christ, where he attended church. He enjoyed swimming, baseball, golf and soccer as a young child. In fifth grade, he was introduced to Lexington Midgetmen football and played under his mentor, Coach Dave Kaple. He continued to play football as a defensive end for Lexington High School. Michael was happiest when he was on the field with his football family! He passed his #55 football jersey on to his younger brother, David, who wore it with great pride! The number 55 was a family football tradition. The tradition was continued with his baby sister, Traci, wearing the # 55 jerseys for fun! Michael cherished spending time with friends, watching movies, video games and boating. Michael will be greatly missed by all of his many friends and family.

Michael is survived by his parents, Jim and Betsy Willis; a brother, David; a sister, Traci; his dogs, Lexi and Gidget; his grandma, Katherine Warga; his aunt, Kathy Hovland; his cousin, Lisa Tolliver "his favorite cousin"; his uncle Phil and Melissa Warga; cousins, Katie and Curtis Warga; his uncle Richard Willis and aunt Raeann Willis; cousin, Alan Willis and his daughters, Mikyla, Natalyia and Destiny Willis; his cousins, Andy and Denise and their daughter, McKenzie Willis; his aunt, Sue and uncle Bob Cleckner and cousin, Steven Cleckner. Michael was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Philip Warga, Sr.; his paternal grandparents, Ralph and Susan Willis; and his cousin, Robert "Bobby" Tolliver.

Michael's family will welcome friends and family at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond Street, Mansfield for calling hours on Wednesday, March 30, 2011, from 5 to 9 p.m. A service to celebrate Michael's life will be held Thursday, March 31, 2011 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home conducted by Rev. Steven Mortach of St. John's United Church of Christ and John Watkins, family friend, who will deliver a message. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Mechanics Bank, in memory of Michael.