75, Navy vet worked for Allied Signal, passed away while hunting on his farm
William Orrie “Bud” Willis, 75, of Independence, Mo., passed away Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009, in Dallas County, Mo., from an accidental drowning doing what he loved to do, deer hunting.
Bud was born on Aug. 19, 1934, in Dallas County, a son to Earl Alexander and Gertie Myrtle (Dibben) Willis.
On Sept. 5, 1959, he was united in marriage to Bertie Mildred Winfrey, and together they had shared the past 50 years until his passing.
Bud had served his country proudly in the United States Navy.
He worked for Allied Signal, retiring in 1997, after having worked there for 39 years. He was a member of the Macks Creek Masonic Lodge.
In his spare time, Bud enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a fan of both the Royals and Cardinals baseball teams. He also enjoyed fixing things. More than anything though, Bud loved his family dearly and enjoyed spending time with them, especially his grandchildren.
Bud was a loving husband, father and grandfather, and was a caring neighbor and friend to all. We celebrate his life and accomplishments and will cherish the memories he created for his family and friends.
Bud is survived by his wife Bertie of the home; one son Stanley Ray Willis of North Las Vegas, Nev.; one daughter Christine Diannie Waters of Macks Creek; one son-in-law Steven Freeman of Independence, Mo.; one brother Don Earl Willis and wife Patricia of Macks Creek; one sister Marjorie Ruth Teer of Macks Creek; six grandchildren; along with several other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Joy Camelle Freeman and one brother, Oral Edward Willis.
Local services will be held Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2009, with visitation from 6-7 p.m. followed by Masonic and funeral services at 7 p.m. at Hedges-Scott Funeral Home in Macks Creek.
Additional services will be held Saturday, Nov. 21, 2009, at Calvary Baptist Church, 1915 North Liberty St. in Independence, Mo., with visitation from 10-11 a.m. and funeral service at 11 a.m.
Interment will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Independence, Mo.
Memorial donations are suggested to Calvary Baptist Church in Independence.
Condolences may be forwarded to the family at www.hedgesscottfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements have been placed under the care of Hedges-Scott Funeral Home of Macks Creek.
