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Willis Courtoise Obituary
Dateline: Bethalto, Illinois
Willis F. "Shorty" Courtoise Jr., 76 Years, passed away at 7:54 am, on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family.
He was born on June 17, 1947 in Richwoods, MO. the son of Willis F. and Mary (Rulo) Courtoise, Sr. He married Janet S. Pinnell in 1967.
Shorty honorably served his country during the Vietnam War as a proud member of the United States Army. His commitment extended beyond military service, dedicating decades to Ford Motor Company. His leadership shone as the respected Union President for UAW Local # 325.
He is survived by his loving wife, Janet, of 56 years; and his children, Tracy (Jenses) Sparks of Bethatlo, Tina (Edward) Masiero of South Roxana, IL, and Chad Courtoise of Bethalto; five grandchildren, Mindy, Chelsea, Chantel, Brandon, and Paige; three great-grandchildren; his sisters, Myrtle Broeker, and Janel (Charles) Tucker; and his brothers, Robert (Darlene) Courtoise, and Warren Courtoise.
Shorty was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Leroy and Larry Courtoise; an infant sister, Charlene Marie Courtoise; and a brother-in-law, Gilbert Broeker.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, December 23, 2023, from 9 am until the time of service at 11 am, at the Elias Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto, Pastor Daryl Dolbee will officiate. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto. Military rites will be performed by Alton VFW Post #1308.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and/or his family.
Online condolences and guest book may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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Funeral services provided by:
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home - Bethalto727 E Bethalto Blvd, Bethalto, IL 62010
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