Robert "Bob" Willard

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Capital University Ohio State University

Robert Willard Obituary

Willard Robert "Bob" Willard, age 62, formerly of Upper Arlington, died December 25, 2014 after a brief hospitalization. He thrice graduated; BA, MA (OSU) and JD (Capital University). He was a true gentleman and scholar, and a practicing trial attorney for over 30 years in Central Ohio. He received a scholarship to play football for Woody Hayes, was a graduate assistant coach, a member of the 1973 season's Rose Bowl team, and proud Varsity O member. He is survived by his wife, Mary-Anne; son, Benjamin (Daniela); brother, Bill; childhood friend, Glen Weber; and many longtime friends. He was preceded in death by parents Edward and Virginia, and son Matthew ("Boo"). A wake will be held at the Red Door Tavern, 1736 West 5th Ave., Columbus, OH 43212 on January 3, 2015 from 2-5 p.m. Visit www.schoedinger.com to share your memories of Bob.

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Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Dec. 30 to Dec. 31, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Willard

15 Entries

January 22, 2015

Just heard about Bob's death. I'm still processing He was such a great friend to my husband, Jeff. I have a picture of hum as the best man at our wedding. Cigar in hand, totally entertaining the crowd. I guess that's how Ill decide to remember him. Such a loss.

Steve & Gail Galbos

January 17, 2015

We were so saddened to hear of Bob's passing. He was a wonderful person & friend ~ we'll remember his sense of humor, his John Wayne impressions & all our wonderful times in Columbus (dorm & house). Our deepest sympathy to the
family.

Don Brosius

January 8, 2015

I am stunned to have just learned of Bob's passing. Having developed my friendship with Bob in law school, I always considered Bob special. His heart was as big as a house. Although words cannot adequately express our condolences to you and your family, rest assured that you are in our prayers.

David Weaver

January 2, 2015

My dear Mary-Anne, I was shocked and saddened to learn that you lost your beloved Bob. You and Ben and all your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Bob Prophater

December 31, 2014

My prayers are with you and your son. I went to high school with Bob and he was a remarkable person. I am sure he is watching over the two of you from above.

Lorna Hern

December 31, 2014

A real gentle giant in the hearts of CFHS graduates ! We will remember your great smile and your kindness to all. You will be missed !

Jackie Porter-Zahl

December 31, 2014

So sorry for your loss especially this time of year. Bob was a friend in high school and I remember watching him play football while I was in the band. I will keep you in my prayers.

December 31, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Willard family. Bob was a good person and teammate. His presences at the reunions will be missed. His sincere greetings, smile and friendlinest was always offered to his teammates.
Tom Battista

Karen Bricker

December 31, 2014

So sorry for your loss! My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. CFHS classmate.

Cleve Ricksecker

December 31, 2014

Bob had one of the most complex personalities I have ever known. A "jock" on the one hand and very refined on the other, Bob could make me laugh as fast as anyone I have known. He fancied himself a John Wayne and could be opinionated and judgmental, but we all knew a sensitive and empathetic side. You couldn't help but love Bob, in spite of himself. I'll miss him. We'll all miss him. But as the Duke himself said, "Well, there are somethings a man just can't run away from." Goodbye my friend.

December 31, 2014

MaryAnn and Ben - We were shocked and saddened to read about Bob's passing. The neighbors have many memories of Devon road gatherings including Bob "the gentle giant" sitting on Joyces patio all "shooting the breeze" over a few drinks. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we will see you Sunday to pay our respects. Patti and Thomas Cotter

John Nemeth

December 31, 2014

I had the pleasure of practicing law with Bob and he was co counsel with me on one of his many jury trials. He was an excellent lawyer and later in his career became an effective mediator as well. He would regale us with Woody Hayes stories whenever the discussions seemed to bog down.
We will all miss his contagious sense of humor but also his sage advice.

December 31, 2014

We were saddened to hear of Bob's passing and so very sorry for your loss~
The O'Brochtas

Debra Bailey

December 31, 2014

Sympathies for your loss.

Tom Szabo

December 30, 2014

We all are going to miss Bob and his great sense of humor. He was a great teammate and roommate. I'm going to miss seeing him at our reunions. We've lost a great Buckets and friend.

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