

Born on February 3, 1929 in Wellesley, Massachusetts to parents Oscar and Myrtle Olson, he moved to Maine as a child, following the early passing of his parents; he attended local schools and graduated from Lisbon High in 1947. Upon graduation, Willard began a lifelong career at the U.S. Gypsum, where he modeled the ultimate Maine work ethic, missing only a handful of days and retiring after 44 years of loyal service.
Without a doubt, Willard’s greatest joy was found in life with his wife, Beatrice (Lavoie). Inseparable since their April 30, 1949 marriage, the couple built a permanent home together in Lisbon Falls, where they raised two sons, Tom and Steve. Both sons married, adding four grandchildren and two great grandchildren to Willard and Bea’s family tree. Known for their loving companionship, they shared joy rides, family visits and faithful friendships on a daily basis. Even their license plate, which reads Wil&Bea, speaks to their tremendous bond.
Willard is survived by his wife Beatrice and the following family members: Brother, Austin Daggett of Coleman, Florida; Sister, Linda King of Zephyr Hills, Florida; Eldest son, Tom and his wife, Penny of Sabattus; two granddaughters, Mandy of Portland and Tricia of Palm Bay, Florida; great grandson, Hayden of Florida; Son, Steve and his wife, Debbie of Sabattus; Grandson, Corey of Sabattus; Grandson, Michael and his wife Dianna with great granddaughter, Lucy, recently of Hendersonville, Tennessee.
Known for quiet strength, ”Grampa” will always live in the hearts of his grand children through their treasured memories of weekly visits, family events and his passion for cars; they often lovingly teased him for having “the cleanest car in Maine!” A generation of great grandchildren began with beloved Hayden five years ago and now includes 21-months-old Lucy who adored her “Bampa.” These most-fortunate children grew up with one of life’s greatest gifts: True, unconditional love and the knowledge that their grandparents were interested in all that they were involved in. Wholeheartedly supporting their unique paths as they have grown, Willard contributed a grandfather’s special love in the shaping of these young adults and their growing families.
Honoring his request, the celebration of Willard’s life will be an ongoing and private one, as family and friends remember the endless stories of his 62 year love affair with his precious wife, Beatrice - and the close knit relationships, held most dear, by this humble, loyal and caring man. He is already sadly missed - and forever loved.
SHARE OBITUARYSHARE
v.1.18.0