Donald V. Willis, Sr.

Donald Vern Willis, Sr of Colbert passed away suddenly on November 5th, 2016 at the age of 84 surrounded by his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Donald was born in 1932 in Loma, North Dakota to Harry and Ella Willis. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Harry & Ella, brothers Phillip, Oliver, Clifford, sister Verda Coye and beloved daughter Pamela Willis MacKenzie. He is survived by his wife Emma of 46 years, twin sister Donna Nelson, son Donald Jr (Ann), daughter Heidi Marskell, step children Lyle Jones, Connie Jones (Martin) and Larry Jones, nine grandchildren, four great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Donald retired from Kaiser Aluminum in 1982. Donald was involved with Winter Knights Snowmobile Club, Colbert Chapel and Inland Empire Quarter Horse Association. Donald loved snowmobiling, 4-wheeling, fishing and snow birding in Yuma, Arizona. The last few years Donald loved being at his lake place at Waitts Lake with Emma and loved spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren play in the water at Waitts Lake. Memorial Service will be at Colbert Chapel in Colbert at 12:00 Noon, Saturday November 12, 2016. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 11th from 9 am - 7 pm at Riplinger Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Colbert Chapel in memory of Donald.