Robert "Bob" L. Willis

Danville – Robert “Bob” Lee Willis, 85, of Danville passed away at 1:01 PM on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the VA Illiana Health Care System in Danville. He was born on November 12, 1939, in Danville to Jack and Gladys (Weir) Willis. He married Alene Jones on October 12, 1963, in Danville. She preceded him in death on March 1, 2023.

He is survived by a daughter, Brenda (Todd) Wakeland of Oakwood; four grandchildren, Tiffany (Jordan) Nagle, Brandis Sprouls, Ashley (Trae) Warren, and Todd “Bub” Wakeland; seven great grandchildren; and a brother, William “Bill” Willis.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents.

After graduating in 1957 from Westville High School, Bob served his country by enlisting in the US Marine Corps. After three years of service, he was honorably discharged and went on to enlist for an additional three years in the Marine Corps Reserves. Bob was a true patriot and was proud of the time he spent as a Marine. He became a longtime member of the Dornblaser American Legion Post #203 in Georgetown and would regularly decorate for any service member related holiday.

In addition to his military background, Bob worked as a cement finisher with the Union Cement Masons and Plasterers Local #143. He was Union proud and had additionally served as their Business Agent for several years. With his free time, Bob enjoyed having breakfast on the last Thursday of every month with his fellow Class of 1957 graduates at Rich’s Family Restaurant. He also loved vegetable gardening and working in his lawn and would stop to visit with his neighbors whenever he got the chance.

Bob’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at the VA hospital who went above and beyond to care for him during his time there.

Per his wishes, Bob will be cremated with a graveside service and military honors to be performed at a later date. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL, 61834 has been entrusted with arrangements. Memorials in his name may be made to the Dornblaser American Legion Post #203, 106 E. West St., Georgetown, IL 61846.

Please join Bob’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.