Frank Wills

1944 - 2023

Frank Anton Wills, 79, died peacefully at home on Nov. 9. He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Jean Bright Wills, with whom he enjoyed a life filled with love.



Born in Butte, MT on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1944, he was the third of four sons. Frank graduated from Butte High School where he played the tuba and excelled in math and science. He earned a degree in geophysical engineering from the Montana School of Mines, and lived in various western states working as a mining engineer. He enjoyed golf and the outdoors. He was a glider pilot and owned the first T-tail glider which he donated to a museum.



Frank moved to Junction, IL from Santa Maria, CA over 30 years ago to be close to Jean's family. He was a friend to all animals, a great storyteller, and delighted and groaned watching Cardinals games. He lived with generosity and good humor, and his eyes lit up with delight when he laughed.



Jean was the love of his life and cared for him in his final years. He is also survived by his two daughters and sons-in-law, Heidi Wills & Kobi Yamada and Kristel & Paul Gibson; his grandchildren, Shale and Ever Yamada; his first wife Patricia Rae Wills; and his younger brother, Daniel Wills, and his children, Daniel Wills, Jr. and Leeann Todd. He was the beloved uncle, cousin, and friend to many more whom he loved dearly. It is an understatement to say he will be missed.



Services will be held at St. Kateri Church and St. Joseph's Cemetery in Ridgway, IL, on Monday, Nov. 13 at 11 a.m. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to St. Kateri Altar Society, Gallatin County Golden Circle, and PAWS in Lynnwood, WA.