With hearts full of gratitude and love, we celebrate the life of Donald E. Willis, who was born in Dubuque, lowa, on August 17, 1933, and peacefully entered eternal rest on July 2, 2025, at Columbus Hospice House after a courageous three-month hospital stay.
Donald lived a life marked by service, devotion, and integrity. He began working at a young age with the State Brand Butter Company and, on November 28, 1953, married the love of his life, Audrey Reardon. Together, they shared an incredible 71 years of marriage, building a legacy of love and family. Their union was blessed with two children, a daughter Catherine and a son Michael, who brought them immense joy and pride.
Soon after marrying, Donald was drafted into the United States Army. With unwavering courage and commitment, he served his country for over 20 years, including one tour in Korea and two in Vietnam. After his honorable military service, he continued to pursue his passion for learning by furthering his education at Columbus College. He then went on to teach at Columbus Technical Institute, where he served as the Department Head of Electronics for 17 years- impacting countless lives through his leadership and knowledge.
Donald's interests were many. He found peace in bass fishing, joy in bowling, and satisfaction in tending to his yard and restoring his beloved 1956 Delta Oldsmobile. Later in life, he became a regular at the St. Francis Fitness Center, staying active and inspiring others by working out three times a week. He also cherished time spent around the card table with family and friends, and he kept his mind sharp by playing daily games of Scrabble with his devoted wife, Audrey. A Celebration of Life and Military Honors will be held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM EST at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery.
Donald leaves behind a loving legacy through his family:
His loving wife, Audrey; one daughter, Catherine; one son, Michael
three granddaughters - Stephanie, Stacey (Christopher), and Kelly (Nathan); one grandson - Matthew (Kristy), four great-grandsons - Brennen, Tyler, Hudson, and James, and one great-granddaughter, Lily James.
Each of them carries forward his strength, kindness, and sense of humor into the world.
"And now I give you a new commandment: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you must also love one another." - John 13:34
We will miss him deeply, honor his memory always, and carry his love with us forever.
