Willard Conine

Willard D. Conine III, 79, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 11, 2025, in Mesquite, Texas, after a short battle with cancer. Born on January 2, 1946, in Dallas, Texas, Willard lived a life full of passion, skill, and unforgettable stories.

A proud graduate of W.W. Samuell High School's class of 1964, Willard went on to attend the University of Texas at Arlington. His expertise as an auto mechanic was widely recognized throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where he was regarded as one of the top mechanics for several years. His love for mechanics extended beyond automobiles-he was also an avid Harley Davidson collector and mechanic. One of his most cherished projects was rebuilding a Sportster that he later enjoyed riding alongside his oldest son, Deke.

Beyond his mechanical talents, Willard found joy in fishing, often spending time by the water with his late wife, Janet. In a humorous revelation later in life, Janet admitted that she never truly enjoyed fishing but joined him simply to be by his side-a testament to their deep bond.

Willard's presence was larger than life. His stories were legendary, often resembling scenes from a movie script. He had a sharp wit and an appreciation for humor that left those around him laughing and reminiscing long after the moment had passed. His wisdom and guidance shaped the lives of many who knew him.

He is survived by his sister, Susan Derrick, of Clear Lake City, Texas, his children: Willard D. Conine IV ("Deke") of Rowlett, Texas, Amy E. Conine, of Garland, Texas, and Kara Conine Eisensmith and her husband, Thomas Eisensmith, of Rowlett Texas. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: Willard D. Conine V ("Quinn"), Spencer Conine, Jordan Crenshaw, Jayda Crenshaw, Hillari Urbina, Bradley Herring and his wife, Kasity Herring, Alex Feiner, and Annabelle Eisensmith, and three great-grandchildren, Christopher Jones, Aurora Knox, and Raven Herring. Willard is also survived by his loving and dedicated life partner, Karen Rodarte, and her children, Sheila Arenas, Augustine Ruiz, Alex Rodarte, and Katherina Rodarte.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Janet E. Conine; his parents Willard D. Conine Jr. and Mary Jo Conine; his brother James Conine; and his grandson, Johnny L. Crenshaw III ("Tre").

A memorial service will be held on March 29, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Primo's Tex-Mex Grille Lake Ray Hubbard (4861 Bass Pro Drive, Garland, TX 75043). Friends and family are invited to join in a time of remembrance and a lantern release to celebrate Willard's life. All are welcome.

Willard's impact on those who knew him will never fade. His memory will live on through the stories he told and the wisdom he shared. He will be deeply missed by all who loved him.