Willard Dean "Willy" Wilson

Willard Dean “Willy” Wilson, 84, of Holton, KS passed away Sunday, January 25, 2026 at his home. He was born May 12, 1941 in Holton, KS, the son of Wilmer Ross “Hack” and Edith Ida (Thornton) Wilson.

Willy grew up in Holton and graduated from Holton High School in 1959. He proudly served in the United States Navy for 4 years as a Machinist Mate. He retired from Dupont/Flexel after 27 years in finishing. He sold Real Estate for 17 years. He also owned and operated Wilson’s Service Master of Electrical, Heating & Air, Appliance Sales and Service as well as Auctioneering for 59 years.

Willy worked at the Holton Light Plant in maintenance for 3 years. He served as City Commissioner from 1986-1988 and served as Holton Mayor in 1989.

On November 27, 1965, Willy was united in marriage to Dianna Lee VanDonge at the Soldier Christian Church. They shared over 55 years of marriage before her passing in 2021.

Willy was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Anita Eby; a brother, Wilbur Wilson; and a step-grandson, Ryan Cox.

Survivors include his children, Tim Wilson (Jeanette) of Olathe, KS, Tom Wilson (Sally) of Holton, KS, Robert Wilson of Holton, KS, Donna Pool (Randy) of Circleville, KS, Kristi Wilson-Ricks of Blue Springs, MO, Matt Wilson (Sharon) of Holton, KS, and Terry Wilson (Gemma) of Horton, KS; sister, Rowena Horr of Topeka, KS; 17 grandchildren; 4 step-grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and 3 step great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 2, 2026 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton, KS. Burial with Military Honors will follow at the Soldier Cemetery. The family will greet friends Sunday afternoon, February 1, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Willy will lie in state Saturday from 12:00 - 6:00 p.m. Memorials may be given to Mercer Funeral Home to help with expenses and sent to P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.