Joseph James Samuel Willis

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph “Joe” James Samuel Willis, our much loved Husband, Dad, Grampa, Great Grandpa, Brother, Uncle and Friend.

Joe was born in the Haynes district on July 17, 1934 and resided there until his family moved to Lacombe in 1944. In 1957 he moved with his young family to Drumheller where he started his career as a Power Lineman with Canadian Utilities, which then became Alberta Power and now ATCO. He worked in Drumheller, Hanna and Castor where he retired in 1991 after 34 years of service. Joe was a farmer at heart and after retirement he took great pleasure in helping two of his many farmer friends with their spring and fall work. He moved back to Lacombe in 1999 where he resided until his passing on January 25, 2022.

Joe’s mannerisms were slow but his humor was quick. The only way to know you’d been “had” was by the twinkle in his eye and his quiet belly laugh. He grew his beard long each winter with the hopes that, along with his white hair and blue eyes, the kids would call him Santa, which made his day. His favorite pastime was visiting over a cup of coffee and telling a few stories to anyone who would listen. Friends and family meant everything to him.

Joe was predeceased by his son, Darcy; parents, Mabel and Rod Willis; sisters, Susan and June; and his “partner in crime” brother, Jack. He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 66 years, Shirley; son, Rick (Debbie) Willis; daughter, Jackie (Les) Williams; a proud grandpa to granddaughters, Richelle (Joel), Alex (Cam), Kennedy (Lance), Erin (Wade); and to #1 grandson, Matthew; as well as great granddaughters, Emma, Roe and Collins. He is also survived by his “baby” sister, Sharon (John) Dilworth; extended family and many friends.

We will remember Joe as a quiet, unassuming man with endless patience and a comforting presence - a kind and gentle soul.

Memorial service to be announced at a later date.

Memorial donations in honour of Joe may be made to a charity of one's choice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph James Samuel Willis, please visit our floral store.