Willis Dean Hadley Jr.

I had the pleasure of being a neighbor, and friend, to Willis, in Ferndale. He was kind, quirky, a night owl , and a great outdoorsman. I didn't know of his passing, until recently. While listening just now to birds singing, thoughts drifted off to Willis. You were one of a kind! I'll always remember how you tickled yourself, after telling one of your jokes. Fly like the bird you were.With love,Donna

I was in the local Ferndale laundromat today talking on the telephone to my elderly mother when I thought about Willis and how we first met in that same laundromat (we both complained about the cost of doing a load of laundry...Willis complained 1st...and I echoed his sentiment). I actually shed a tear while sharing that story with my mother...and said I wish he were still around today! He will be missed by those left to fight the good fight.

It was synchronistic to come home and...

I'm very sorry, I will remember you ! Meg

Don't know why Willis came to mind just now, but I decided to look him up on line. Haven't lived in Ferndale since '90, but it has provided me with many a story to tell to those who are willing to listen. Tales, not too tall, about Willis were always well received. Willis made it easy. He treated me well, and I enjoyed his friendship (and employment) very much.
Willis, Jack and Hobart...what a trio to draw to. All gone now.
RIP old friend.

Good man and a good friend

We are just now learning of the passing of Willis Hadley, having left Ferndale a year ago to serve as missionaries in Boston, MA. Thank you to all who have shared your messages here, as we grieve the loss of our friend. We admire Willis for his unique contributions to the community, and agree that he was generous and kind, he loved to tell us corny jokes. We will always consider him a treasured friend. For all who love and miss him, we send our deepest sympathies, and faith that we shall see...

Following Uncle Tige (Dr. Crane), Willis was my second boss. Whether making face fly screens for horses or watching him try to hard boil an egg in the latest invention (a microwave) he purchased for his restaurant, working for him was an adventure. What a creative mind! He was one of Ferndale's gems and will be remembered always. I am saddened to hear of his passing.

Willis was a dear friend...I miss him dearly.