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Zach Willard Obituary
Zach Willard, 30, of Hurricane passed away Monday, March 13, 2017.
Zach was born April 24 1986 in Charleston, WV. He is the son of Vince Willard and Angie Ryder (Bruce). He was raised in and attended school in Poca, WV. In October 2004 Zach enlisted in the US Air Force, proudly serving his country for eight years. He was awarded many medals and badges during his service time. During his second tour in Iraq, Zach earned his Purple Heart that was presented to him by General Norman Swartz for injuries that he received from and IED blast. Zach was honorably discharged on October 14, 2012. He was an avid outdoorsman, who loved time in the woods with his Papa Jim and Papa Willard. Aside from his outdoor activities he applied his talents, to painting and wood working, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Zach loved his family and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He had an infectious smile, a big heart, and never met a stranger, and made a difference in this world to all those he met. Zach recently started working with his Dad learning his trade and making memories. Zach was a Christian and was baptized.
Zach leaves behind to remember him his Mom Angie Ryder and husband Bruce, his Dad Vince Willard, brothers Alex Ulanch, Joey Ulanch, Colton Willard, Logan Ryder, maternal grandparents Jim Coche and wife Cindy, Charlotte Smithson, paternal grandparents Brian C. Willard and Joan Willard, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins and many friends that loved him dearly.
A celebration of Zach’s life will be held at 12 Noon on Friday, March 17, 2017 at Cooke Funeral Home, 2002 20th St., Nitro with friend/mentor Rev. W. I. Hairston officiating. Burial will follow at Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery, Dunbar. The family will receive friends from 10:00 am till Noon at the funeral home.
As with so many other veterans, Zach suffered from PTSD, his parents want to honor Zach’s memory by requesting contributions to Diving With Heroes at https://www.divingwithheroes.org/donate. His parents would also like to request that whenever you see any military personnel, stop and shake their hand and thank them for their service to our country.
Jane Fix
March 9, 2021
Time doesn't lessen the grief, it simply changes how those tsunami moments come and go, but they're still there. Prayers for you and your family. I weep with you......
Jane Fix
March 9, 2020
Knowing all too well that these times can be especially difficult...may you sense God's arms holding you close. Praying for you in these days of remembrance......
Robert Howington
March 13, 2018
Missing you still battle
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Sharon Schiffel
March 27, 2017
So sorry for your loss. Taken from you too young. My heart goes out to you. Prayers. Love to all
March 18, 2017
So sorry for your loss.
Eleanor Garrett
Carolyn Campbell
March 16, 2017
I personally did not know Zach, but when a family has sacrificed their loved one who couragesly served our country, it's heartbreaking. May Zach be at peace and may God be with and comfort this family during their tragic loss of such a heroic young man. Thank you Zach for your service to our country.
Barbara Fletcher
March 16, 2017
So sorry for your loss!!!
Dave Johnson
March 16, 2017
Suffer no more, Zach.Your batte is over. A special place in heaven will be waiting for you. I didn't know you personally, but we served in the same war. Prayers for those left behind.
Pat Northeimer
March 16, 2017
I do not know Zach but felt in my heart I needed to thank him for serving our Country and for all he gave. God Bless his family during this difficult time. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Ashley
March 16, 2017
Willard was one of those guys you don't get to work with and easily forget. He had a heart of gold, and shared a ton of laughs with us all. He was even able to shake off his purple heart and crack jokes about that sandy vaca. Another Airman lost too soon. God bless your family and know he's in better hands with his Father above.
Dan Hall
March 16, 2017
Zach was truly a wonderful person and someone that always brought a smile to people's faces. I'm so glad I got a chance to meet him, get to know him, and talk with him, and I am glad that he was a fellow brother in arms. God Bless you and your family during this difficult time and Zach, Rest In Peace buddy.
Sara Pringle-Nunley
March 16, 2017
I have so many fond memories of Zach from school and hanging out in "The Croft". He could always make you smile with his charming personality. I think him and all those who serve our country. Thoughts and prayers for all the many that are mourning this loss.
Bonita Porter
March 16, 2017
Thank you for your service, son and to your parents thank you for your sacrifice.
Randy D
March 16, 2017
We lost my son just weeks ago. He was almost 30. His service was time in the Army. A old neighborhood friend shared Zach's obituary with me. I offer prayers, wish your family peace, and salute your sacrifice and the honor of your hero's service.
Brandy Stokes
March 16, 2017
The are no words to express the depth of my sorrow for you and your family. I love you all and will keep you close in my heart.
Shawn Stafford
March 16, 2017
It was an honor to serve with Zach Willard at home and overseas. He was always such a charismatic guy and touched so many peoples lives.
Kaye
March 16, 2017
Thank you for your service to our country Mr. Willard!
Susan Black
March 16, 2017
So sorry for the loss of your beloved son. I didn't know him and I don't know you but I know how precious our children and our veterans are. Peace to you and Zach.
Esteban Ochoa III MSgt (R), USAF
March 15, 2017
Nothing I can say can ease the pain. Know that his memory and spirit live on. I did not know him, but I know many of his former bosses, supervisors, etc. Thank you for all you have given.
Nathan Gainey
March 16, 2017
to the family I am deeply sorry for your tragic loss. Zach was a great all around guy that could make anyone laugh. he will truly be missed by all.
Joe and Joan Savilla
March 15, 2017
What a tragic loss for your family. We are deeply saddened. May God bless all of you, and give Zach eternal rest with God.
Henry Ponder
March 15, 2017
There will come a day when, once again, precious memories of your loved one will bring joy rather than sorrow. I am truly at a lost for word for your lost. Zach was an outstanding young man and I am honored to have known him.
Henry Ponder, MSgt, USAF Retired
Spring Lake, NC
Brian Lovejoy
March 15, 2017
Zach used to play with my eldest daughter when they were young. Another light of this world dimmed too soon.
Debbie Landers
March 15, 2017
John 14:2
In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
Enjoy your Mansion and peace Zach
You deserve it. I'll be here keeping your sweet mom company until you and your family are together again.
Mary Hypes
March 15, 2017
Prayer are with you
Anita (Rose) & Ed Myers
March 15, 2017
Jim, Cindy and family, we are so sorry you have lost your precious loved one, Zach. Words can not ease the pain in your hearts but we pray God will give you strength during this horrible time. Prayers for comfort and understanding. We thank Zach for his service and our freedom. Many hugs and prayers.
Lee Turley
March 15, 2017
So sorry for your loss! Love and prayers to you all.
Carla Dailey
March 15, 2017
I just loved this boy. So sorry! Remember the good memories
Jane Fix
March 15, 2017
To the family of Zach...my heart is breaking over the tragic loss of another of my daughter's high school friends. Zach came to Meg's (Megan Curry)visitation last April and I remember him so fondly from her school days! It just tears open the wounds that are simply too fresh from her loss and my sadness for you is overwhelming. Please know that you will be in my prayers. May you find strength and comfort, as I have, in knowing that the struggles of this world are no longer haunting our children and they are safe in the arms of our heavenly Father. I look forward to that glorious reunion....
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2002 20th St, Nitro, WV 25143-1707
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