William "Bill" Willis

1940 - 2026

William "Bill" Willis

August 1, 1940 - January 29, 2026

William H. "Bill" Willis, age 85, of Toledo, Ohio, died on January 29, 2026. He was born on August 1, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri, to William T. Willis and Faye (White) Willis, and was raised in Belleville, Illinois.

Bill pursued his undergraduate studies at DePauw University before attending the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. It was there that he met the love of his life and future wife, Jane. He completed his internship at Ford Hospital in Detroit and his residency at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, where he served as Chief Resident. Following his training, Bill settled in Toledo, Ohio, where he became a highly respected and well-known ear, nose, and throat physician. He practiced medicine with dedication, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility to his patients, never complaining and always giving his best.

Bill was a longtime member of the Inverness Club and greatly enjoyed travel, experiencing many beautiful places throughout the world. His adventures took him from Hawaii to Australia, on African safaris, Caribbean cruises, and throughout South America. He loved playing tennis and had a special passion for photography. It was not unusual for Bill to arrive at any gathering with his cameras and equipment in hand, ready to capture meaningful moments.

Above all, Bill treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather. He lived his faith in much the same way he lived his life, quietly and consistently, without drawing attention to himself. Bill was a strong man with remarkable resilience and determination. He also carried a great deal of fight with him. Though he accomplished much, he remained humble and never sought recognition. He was known for his kindness, honesty, intelligence, and strong work ethic, as well as the quiet intensity that defined his presence.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William T. Willis and Faye (White) Willis. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jane Willis; his children, Peter (Lynette) Willis and Penny (Kenneth) Haas; and his cherished grandchildren, Anna Willis, Carter Willis, Thomas Willis, Kira Haas, Ian Haas, Margaret Haas, and Nathan Haas.

Bill will be cremated, and a memorial service will be held in his honor at Olivet Lutheran Church, in Sylvania, Ohio, on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11 a.m.

Bill will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for the steady, faithful presence he brought to his family, his profession, and his community.

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