Bernard "Bernie" W. Willis' Obituary
Bernard “Bernie” W. Willis, 94, of Coventry, CT, passed away on Friday, March 1, 2024. He was born in Willimantic, CT, son of the late Joseph and Ada (Gill) Willis. Bernie was predeceased by his loving wife, Lillian (Hornacek) Willis, and his brother, John Willis. He is survived by his three children, Debbie Willis of Coventry, CT, Pamela Lambert and her husband Patrick of Columbia, CT, and William “Bill” Willis and his wife Michele of Bolton, CT; five grandchildren, Kyle, Lance, Sarah, Katlyn, and Madison; and two great grandchildren, Jacob and Tyler. Bernie served our country in the United States Army National Guard during the Korean Conflict. After being honorably discharged, he worked at B. Schwanda Company, and then drove tractor trailer for several companies, lastly being Cassarino Trucking. After working for others, Bernie decided to be the independent owner/operator of B. Willis Company, specializing in landscaping and retaining walls. In the winter months, snow plowing kept him busy. He did a lot of his business on a handshake, and until his customers were fully satisfied. He last worked as caretaker of Ellington Cemetery Association, a job he took great pride in doing. After his retirement at age 80, Bernie finally slowed down and enjoyed puzzles, playing cards, NASCAR, and watching Westerns (especially Gunsmoke). The family would like to thank St. Joseph’s Living Center in Windham for their care and compassion, with special thanks to Ozzy. His funeral service will be held on Friday, March 8, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Introvigne Funeral Home, Inc., 51 East Main St., Stafford Springs, CT. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Stafford Springs Cemetery, Stafford Springs, CT. Calling hours are on Thursday, March 7, 2024 from 5:00-7:00 PM at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675. To leave a condolence online for the family, please visit: www.introvignefuneralhome.com
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