Willis Grant "Bill" Cornelius

Willis "Bill" Grant Cornelius ESCONDIDO -- Willis "Bill" Grant Cornelius, 94, a long time Escondido resident, passed away on Sunday, December 5, 2010. Bill was born on March 16, 1916 in Durango, Colo. Mr. Cornelius moved with his family to the San Diego area in 1917. He graduated in 1939 from Colorado State University, where he was a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. He moved to Escondido in 1945 and married his wife, of more than 55 years, Irene Rope, on January 25, 1947. Mr. Cornelius was an avocado and citrus farmer for more than 65 years. He was a Past President and member of the Rincon Del Diablo Water District Board of Directors for 29 years. He was also a member of Community Lutheran Church. He is survived by sister, Nancy Glasscock, of Fayetteville, Ark.; daughter, Carol Cornelius; son, Curtis Cornelius; granddaughter, Andrea Cornelius; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Irene Cornelius, and five brothers. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, December 10, at Oak Hill Memorial Park in Escondido. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Bill's name to Community Lutheran Church. Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com