Robert Willett

Robert Bob Willett, 85, of Danville passed away on May 13, 2007 at VA Illiana Health Care Systems. Bob was born November 28, 1921 in Tab, IN son of John and Vera Luelle Dysert Willett. His mother passed at an early age and his father married Mae Bleveans. He married Marianne Wichus and she preceded him in 1972. He later married Faye Norbut on December 23, 1978 in Danville. She survives along with four children: John Robert (Anita) Willett of Kemah, TX, Debra Sue (William Bill) Gross of Danville, and James Jay (Janet) Willett of The Woodlands, TX. Step daughter Mary Frances Flynn (Aaron Cecil Asher) of Centennial, CO. Grandchildren: Stephanie Ann Holaves of KS, Jenifer (Sean) Majewski of IL, John Willett of PA, Alissa Willett of TX, Lauren Willett of TX, twins Brittany & Brandon Willett of TX, Erin Flynn of CO, Regina (Ryan) Bell of FL, and Emily Ann Gross of KS. Two great grandchildren: Alexandra and Samantha Majewski of IL. Uncle and Aunt: Russell (Liz) Dysert of IN. Nieces Vera Mount and Ida Faye Cole & Nephews Mike Willett and Brian LaMar. Special friends: Leroy (Diana) Stewart of Covington, IN, Robert (Margaret) Groves & Brown (Yvonne) Gwynn all of Elizabethtown, KY. Golfing partners & friends: Robert Songer, the late Jack Royster, Rex Fluno, Ted Brinkman, George Collins, Robert Young, and Mike Thorlton. Robert was preceded in death by his parents. Bob was a 40 graduate of Danville High School and served in the U.S. Army during WWII in the 95th Infantry Division, 3rd Platoon, 2nd in command, European Theater. He was wounded in the Battle of the Bulge and Majano Line receiving two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star. After Victory Day, Bob was assigned to General Patton when he became one of his prestigious guards. His duties included walking General Pattons dog Willie and assisted in the searched for the famous pearl handled pistols. After the service Bob worked for Klaus Radio in Peoria serving the Midwest Region selling RCA Products. He was an avid golfer, life member of the ELKS Club, American Legion Post #210, former member of the Rotary & Danville Country Club, and coached little league baseball. A Celebration of Roberts Life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 18, 2007 at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL with Rev. Greg Nelson officiating. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Thursday evening at the funeral home. Per his wishes and dedication to his country he will be laid to rest at Danville National Cemetery with Military Honors. Memorials may be made to the caring and beautiful Palliative Care Unit at the Illiana Health Care Systems in Danville and/or American Stroke Association. Bob fought a good fight after suffering a stroke in January. He will be missed by all that knew him as the best husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, close friends & neighbors, he owned the Carmel Corn Shop on North Street in Danville, helped his wife Faye manage Fayes Dance Co., and referred to her as the love of his life. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com