Robert Lee Willard

Robert Lee Willard entered life September 1, 1914 and passed away September 5, 2012. He was a life-long resident of Buchanan, Michigan and a career Michigan educator. He is survived by his wife Kathryn and sons Laird of Niles, Michigan and Lance of Buchanan, Michigan, daughters Brooke (Ronald) Hefner of Plattsmouth, Nebraska and Lindsey (David) Flannery of Falmouth, Kentucky. Bob is also survived by six grandchildren; April (Troy) Baker, Lauren Flannery, Kelsey Flannery, Ryan Flannery, Kyle Hefner, and Regan Hefner. Bob was a decorated World War II veteran, serving as a 9th Air Force liaison pilot in the European Theater of Operations, where he was assigned to the 125th Liaison Squadron. He achieved the grade of Master Sergeant and was awarded the Bronze Star, Air Medal, and American and European Campaign Medals, along with the Belgian Fouragere, “The Order of the Day” for his wartime exploits. He had the honor of flying top generals including General George Patton. Returning to Buchanan after the war, Bob met and married Kathryn (nee Jones), completed his teaching certification and embarked on a 32 year education career. He was awarded his Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Wisconsin in Superior, and followed that degree with a Master’s in Administration from the University of Michigan in Lansing. As an educator, Bob was second to none teaching English and Mathematics, and later was a Principal, Business Manager, Administrative Assistant and Assistant Superintendant in local school systems. While he was employed, and during his retirement, Bob traveled extensively with his family throughout the United States, Canada, and Nova Scotia. His travels also included trips to Europe and England. Bob was a past member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, American Legion Post 204, and the Three Oaks Lion’s Club. He was always close to his military past continuing to fly with his sons-in-law (both Air Force veterans), and attended many military events during their service careers. Bob had a beautiful tenor voice and he was a popular choice to sing solos at church, weddings and at other events in Buchanan and upper Wisconsin. He spent many days working on and enjoying life on Kathryn’s family farm in northern Wisconsin. Bob’s true joy was being around his family and grandchildren. He will rest easy knowing he touched so many lives in very special and meaningful ways.Those wishing to sign his guest book or leave a condolence message may do so by visiting our website www.swemchapel.com.