Frank E. Willard, 75, a resident of Mount Vernon, passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2008 with his sister by his side at the Mira Vista Care Center in Mount Vernon.
Frank was born on May 25, 1933 in Anchorage, Alaska. He was the son of Azro and Polly Demidoff Willard. Frank attended school in Sedro-Woolley and was a Sedro-Woolley High School graduate of 1953. Frank then joined the army and became a combat engineer in the ‘Big Red 1’ 1st Infantry Division in occupied Germany.
Upon returning home, Frank met his true love, Imo Jean McGwin, and they were married in 1964. They had one son, Andrew John. Imo Jean passed away in 1978. Frank was a wonderful father to Andy, he was a genuine and honest man of true values.
Frank worked at Skagit-Bendix Corporation for many years. He then owned his own bakery and finally retired from Denny’s after many years of dedicated service.
He was an avid outdoorsman, the wilderness was his playground. Frank spent many wonderful times with his family, especially his father, son, grandsons and friends camping and telling stories; his smile and laugh was contagious and will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Frank was a wonderful cook, whether it be over an open campfire or in his kitchen at home or in the bakery, he could make a wonderful hearty meal. His family will always remember his unique cakes. Frank loved to tell stories of baking with his mother as a child and attributed those memories to his love of cooking.
Frank is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Andrew and Bari Willard; sister and brother-in-law, Mabel and Elmer Martin; nephew, Paul Martin; grandchildren, Robert, Christopher, Carmen and Juliana and great-grandchildren, Madison and Jayden.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Azro and Polly Willard and his wife, Imo Jean.
Graveside Services with full Military Honors will be held on Monday, December 15, 2008 at 11:00 AM at Union Cemetery in Sedro-Woolley with Pastor Richard Hargis of the Bow United Methodist Church officiating. A fellowship will immediately follow the service at the Cedar Point Clubhouse off Gilkey Road in Burlington. Services and arrangements are under the direction of Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley.