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Willis, Harrison "Gene" Of The Park at Vernon Hills, IL and formerly of Waukegan, Illinois, died Saturday, September 28th at the age of 90. Gene was a World War II veteran of the "Battle of the Bulge," 87th Infantry, Golden Acorn Division and he was a retired Senior Chief Petty Officer in the Naval Reserves. Mr. Willis was born in Ellington, Missouri and retired from Great Lakes Naval Training Center as a Chief Crane Operator. He possessed a passion and deep love for his family and friends.In addition, Gene had a love and interest in automobiles. He restored and painted his vehicles and those of many friends and family. He was formerly Secretary/Treasurer of the Lake County, Illinois Corvette Club. In his later years he developed a passion for painting and singing. Mr. Willis was the loving husband of the late Georgia (Shelby) Willis and the late Katherine (Corzine) Willis. He also leaves behind a daughter Joyce (Michael) Wade, daughter Rita (James) Bero, and son Steven (Billie Jean) Willis.He also leaves behind his seven grandchildren, Brent (Cynthia) Wade, Eddie (Mindy) Plante, Carson (Brian) Gasner, Dawn Wilkenson, Crystal Willis, Melissa (Joe) Wilkenson-Morzuch, Shelby (Aaron) Gustman, his eleven great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. His parents, George and Grace Willis; sisters and brothers, Lois, Hazel, Volley, Lewis, and Shirley preceded him in death. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 3rd at 11 amat the Marsh Funeral Home, 305 N. Cemetery Road, Gurnee, IL. Interment will be at North Shore Garden of Memories. Friends may greet the family on Wednesday evening, October 2nd from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Disabled American Veterans.
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6 Entries
Gene always put a smile on my face as I looked forward to seeing him when visiting my grandma at the park. I would stop at Gene's house right when I arrived. I looked forward to the biggest hug and the warmest smile from one of the most genuine and loving people I'd ever met. He will be loved and missed by many.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Abbey Greenberg
October 10, 2013
October 5, 2013
Always enjoyed seeing you.A great son was raised by you in Steve.I know heaven awates you.
Mike Upchurch
October 1, 2013
Dear Joyce, Steve and all of Gene's wonderfully large extended family. I will always remember Gene's smiling face and great sense of humor. What great memories he's left all of you. Love, Chris & Steve Bartik
September 30, 2013
We are going to miss you Grandpa. Thank you for sharing your memories and your love for art, automobiles and family. You will always be in my heart.. Love you!! ~Shelby
Shelby Gustman
September 30, 2013
Dear Joyce and Mike and families,
We are so sorry to hear about your beloved Father Gene. Our Prayers are with all of you! God Bless!
Marlene Kabes
September 30, 2013
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