Chris Willcome

Christopher Paul Willcome, age 66, passed away on September 26, 2025, in Shawano. Chris was born in Michigan on May 21, 1959, son of Mary (Staeven)Willcome and the late Clarence Willcome. After Chris graduated high school, in his junior year he moved to Birnamwood where he worked at the family dairy farm. Chris worked as a milker for many years. He was then united in marriage to Mary Backes on September 24, 1983, in Birnamwood. He and Mary had three wonderful children. Chris went on to work for Kersten Lumber from 1987 to 2015 and then Twig's as a bottler for the last 10 years. His priority was his family and all Wisconsin sports, with the exception of Notre Dame. Chris was the best grandpa a kid could have. He always babysat and attended all the grandkids' sports games. He matched their energy in running and playing with them. He cherished photos of them and of his pups. Chris loved spending his free time bicycling around town and having campfires in the backyard. He had a story for everything. He was humorous, sociable, generous, and connected with anyone who supported WI sports teams. If he saw you wearing WI sports apparel, it would spark an immediate sense of camaraderie. Chris touched the lives of all who knew him and will be profoundly missed.

Chris is survived by his wife, Mary Willcome; children, Bill (Nikki) Willcome, Annie (Brent) Willcome, and Danielle (Travis) Willcome; grandchildren, Kypling, Landon, Trinity, Teagan, and one on the way, Luke; his mother, Mary Lou Willcome; his golden retriever best buddies, Reggie and Watson; and many siblings including Damian, Missy, and Pat. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his father, Clarence and brother-in-law, Tim Backes.

A memorial mass for Chris will be held at 11:30am on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Fr. Edward Looney officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Wednesday from 9:00am until the time of the service.

Pallbearers will be Landon Deavers and Damian Willcome.

The family asks that all attendees wear their favorite Wisconsin sports apparel in honor of Chris.