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Dana Oscar Willard
1943 - 2024
Dana Oscar Willard
1943 - 2024
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1943
DIED
2024
Dana Willard Obituary
Dana's early life was marked by his education at Nunda Central School in Nunda, NY, and he furthered his education with an Associate's Degree from Alfred State College in Alfred, NY. His commitment to service extended beyond his professional life into the military, where he served in the Army from 1966 to 1968, stationed in Berlin, Germany.
Known for his kindness and humor, Dana was a loving husband to Patricia Dowdy Willard, a devoted father to Carrie Elizabeth Kochek, a steadfast father in law to Peter Wilson Kochek and a cherished grandfather to Wilson Michael Kochek and Miles Willard Kochek. He is also survived by his brother, Peter Willard; sister, Virginia Ray Long; and their spouses, Sandy Willard and Larry Long, respectively. Dana was preceded in death by his sister Suzanne Bardo and his parents, Dana Oscar Willard, Sr. and Nancy McDowell Willard.
An avid golfer and passionate supporter of the Georgia Bulldogs, Dana's interests were deeply intertwined with his love for his family and friends. His presence brought light and laughter to those around him, making lasting friendships and memories.
Visitation will be held in Atlanta on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 4:00-6:00 PM at Lee's Funeral Home & Crematory. A second visitation will take place on September 9, 2024, from 2:00-3:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at Hughes and Wright Funeral Home in Cordele, GA. Dana will be laid to rest at Sandy Mount Church Cemetery.
Contributions in Dana's memory may be made to The Sandy Mount Cemetery Fund or the Penia Baptist Church Building Fund. Donations can be sent to 431 Williford Crossing Road S., Cordele, GA 31015. Dana's legacy of kindness, humor, and service will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.
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Nancy DeVinney Gebauer
October 19, 2024
Dana (aka Danny) was a special friend known to everyone in Nunda. To know him was to think the world of him. My sister, Patty Anne, & I lived across the street from the school. The boys would come over after games & watch TV. I'm sad to hear of his passing. RIP Danny & condolences to the rest of his family.
Leslie Bottorff
October 13, 2024
Patricia, Virginia Ray and Larry, Carrie and Pete, Pete and Sandy, and the rest of your family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss of your beloved Dana. He was so kind, fun loving, and lovable, he never met a stranger, he was friend to all. I have so many fond memories of hangin' out with Dana and Pat and the whole family during my time living in Atlanta, so many years ago, but it seems like it was just yesterday. He made an impact on me, and on many other people's lives. May he rest in peace, and may your beautiful memories sustain you during this time of grief. Deepest Sympathies, Leslie
Maryl and Mike Kochek
September 8, 2024
Dana was a loving
husband, father, grandfather and father-in-law . He will leave wonderful memories for all who knew and loved him.
Sarah M
September 8, 2024
Mrs. Pat and Carrie, I am so sorry for your loss. You both were there for Mr. Dana and honored him so well in his final hours. Thank you for trusting us to take care of him. One thing said of him was, "I have never seen anyone face death with such grace and peace." Know you´re being prayed for! Sarah M, RN
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Beverly (Smith) VanCamp
September 7, 2024
Condolences from your hometown of Nunda, NY. Danny, You were such fun during our teen years. As a funeral home director here, you were so gracious to us and as an owner of a floral shop business, as well. We've missed you. "Yet we grieve not as others who have no hope." (I Thess. 4:13) Trusting that you are part of the family of God and we will meet again. Keeping your family and friends in our thoughts and prayers. See you later.
Karen Dorough
September 7, 2024
Patricia, I am so sad to hear of Dana's passing. He was such a great guy.
Every time I saw him, every event we attended, he always brought the fun. He truly embodied finding joy in the moment.
I am holding you close and hoping that you find peace.
Dr Anne Baucom
September 7, 2024
I am saddened to learn of Dana´s passing. Although I only met Dana and his family recently, in observing their response to tragedy, the intense love they shared was obvious. Their strength, resiliency and faith were evident in the most difficult of circumstances. May the love they shared and their friends and family carry them through this difficult time. My thoughts will be with them. Sincerely, Dr Anne Baucom
Nicholas White
September 7, 2024
I only met Dana a few times, through his daughter Carrie, but he was a joy to be with and had a great sense of humor. Carrie, to you and all who loved Dana so dearly, my deepest condolences.
Thomas L. Carter
September 6, 2024
So sorry for y´all´s tremendous loss. Dana was a great guy. I worked with Dana and enjoyed playing golf and having a cold beer every now and then when we had time off. Sincerely, Thomas (Tommy) L. Carter
David S. Robinson
September 6, 2024
David S. Robinson
Canisteo, NY
Dana had an innate ability to meet people where they were at. His compassion for others, his empathy, his steadiness, his desire to help others, really shone through. Dana came by these qualities, not just as a funeral director, but as a father, husband, brother, and friend. He brought out the better angels of our nature. Rest in Peace Dana. God Bless your family, and thank you for your friendship.
Joan H. Larson
September 5, 2024
My heart is sad today in learning of Dana (Danny) leaving us. Dana was like a little brother to me, along with Peter, and his sisters, Suzanne and Virginia. My love for the family is unreasonable. Dana was described perfectly in the obituary. My children send our deepest sympathy and love to the entire family. Dear Dana, rest in peace. God bless. Joan Hall Larson
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1010 East Eighth Avenue, Cordele, GA 31015
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