Larry Willis

Obituary of Larry Willis Larry Willis, 68, The Villages, FL died Saturday, Nov. 3, 2012. Mr. Willis was born in Indianapolis, IN. He worked for Ford Motor Co. over 30 years before retiring to pursue his passion playing daily golf in The Villages and with the SAGA, (Senior Amateur Golf Association) group beginning December, 1999. He also previously worked for The Villages golf division. He won several trips competing in local Indy Ford and/or UAW golf tournaments which provided him the opportunity to advance to additional playoffs. One particular playoff sent him to one of the most romantic places in North America, Niagara Falls. Pat, his wife, was excited about this trip but, wouldn't you know, wives weren't included; so Larry packed up his clubs and went off to enjoy great rounds of golf, toured the Falls and surrounding areas with a group of guys. What a hoot.....Larry, Pat and friends have spent many past years laughing and teasing about his visit to this very popular, historical, honeymoon site with a bunch of men. Larry was a multi-talented athlete; he played football in school and even lost his front teeth. He was an accomplished bowler and after working all night, he spent many mornings at various bowling lanes pot-bowling, which enabled him to earn extra income to support his wife and young family. Most people aren't aware there was also a more serious, quiet side to Larry....he was the champion in chess at the Ford/UAW Indianapolis plant. He continued competing with many others located on the east side of Indianapolis. Mr. Willis was also a member of the Indianapolis Masonic Lodge (Prospect) for 32 years and the Scottish Rite. Larry was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. Survivors include his wife,Pat, of over 50 years, The Villages; son, Larry Willis, Hickory, NC; daughter, Shari Willis Palinca, Summerfield, FL; granddaughter, Kristen Samierad, Oceanside, CA; grandson, Christopher Willis, Afganistan; and one great grandson, Seth Willis, Hickory, NC. now 7 mos. old. A memorial gathering took place at the home of his daughter on Thursday, 11/08/12. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cornerstone Hospice, 601 Casa Bella, The Villages, FL 32162. Services A memorial gathering took place at the home of his daughter on Thursday, 11/08/12. Memorial Donations In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cornerstone Hospice, 601 Casa Bella, The Villages, FL 32162.

Larry Willis

November 3, 2012