Michael James Willard

He was preceded in death by his father, James V. Willard.

Michael loved the sport of swimming. After trying his hand as a “meet dad,” he decided he was better off working on the deck instead. He started his deck career as a stroke and turn judge in Maryland, eventually earning the nickname “Birdman.” He also had the pleasure of being slapped in the face by one of Michael Phelps’s warm-up arm swings. Eventually, his family moved to Williamsburg, VA where he continued his hobby even after his kids were out of the sport. His goal was to ensure that all swimmers were given a fair chance. He was well respected and maintained order on “his deck” during all meets. He served as a mentor to many swimming officials in the Maryland and Virginia area. After a short time off, this fall he had the pleasure of returning to the deck as a referee, which made him the happiest man around. The smile he had while on the deck was contagious. Throughout his life he served as a dedicated swimming official, obtaining the certification of referee for the YMCA, VPSU, VHSL, Maryland Swimming, and Virginia Swimming. He also served as the rules chair for VPSU and was a past president for VPSU.

In addition to his hobby of officiating, Michael worked as a Senior Estimator in the construction industry. He was employed at numerous construction companies in Virginia such as LaRS , Henderson, S.B. Ballard, and Sauer. He obtained LEED Green Associate and was a member of the DBIA. At Henderson he served on Dawn Patrol, the group of employees that prepared meals for the annual woodcut. He also was in charge of their newsletter.

Michael also loved cooking. He loved watching cooking shows and preparing meals for his family. Though he enjoyed cooking and eating his meals quite late at night, he made the best food! He passed on his love of cooking to his children. He also loved his three cats Rudy, Sparky, and Bean. He even cooked special meals for his toothless tabby. He also made sure to cook his granddaughter’s favorite food each time she came to visit. She was the apple of his eye.

Above all, Michael was a loving son, husband, father, and Bepa.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years Sandra T. Willard; his son, Ryan J. Willard; his daughter Christine P. Hutto and her husband, Christopher M. Hutto; his granddaughter, Addison P. Hutto; and his mother, Anna Mary Frances Krantz.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at a local pool at a later date.

Online condolences may be offered at www.nelsencares.com.