Robert Willett

Robert Willett, 76, passed away on Sunday, October 15, 2017, at home following an extensive health battle. He leaves behind the love of his life, Ella (Flack) Willett of 58 years, his son, Roger (Linda) Willett of IN, daughters, Robin (Tim) Lewis of NE and Renee Stocker of Des Moines. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Jeremey (Pattie) Schiltz of AR, William Willett of NE, Tyson and Toby Lewis of NE, Jessica (Shay) Kaufmann and Lucas Stocker of Des Moines and one great-granddaughter, Chasity Schiltz. He is also survived by his three brothers, Donald (Patricia) Willett, Harold Willett and Ed (Diane) Willett, and many nieces and nephews.

Bob was born in Des Moines, IA, to Wayne and Arlene (Bevan) Willett on October 28, 1940. He was a lifelong resident and graduated from Tech High School in 1959 in the Radio and TV Field.

He was married to Ella (Flack) on February 28, 1958. He worked at Koch Brothers repairing office equipment until he then got into the construction business, eventually becoming a general contractor. In the late 80s, he started Countertops by Willett and created many friendships and long-lasting business relationships with his honesty, caring, and how he treated everyone like family.

During his lifetime, he would consider one of his greatest achievements to be obtaining his pilot’s license and owning his own plane. He took great joy in flying and the friendships he made with fellow pilots. He was also an avid fisherman, going so far as to be a Canadian Fishing Guide. One of his favorite places to vacation was Savant Lake, Ontario and, as was his way, the family of this camp became like his own.

Somehow Bob managed to make many friendships through breakfast, enjoying this daily ritual with friends and family. “Meet me for breakfast” became a welcome time where he could listen to concerns or enjoy success, and provide excellent council if needed.

He and Ella traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and Canada, generally in their camper. After deciding to find a more permanent winter place, they settled on St. Petersburg, FL. Bob would talk of Oysters, friends and family visiting. He very much enjoyed his Florida friends.

He was a member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Des Moines. Bob leaves behind so many family and friends that he will be greatly missed. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Arlene Willett, his son, Richard Wayne Willett, and brother, James Willett.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Ronald McDonald House, 1441 Pleasant St, Des Moines, IA 50314 or Fellowship Baptist Church, 1503 SE 6th St, Des Moines, IA 50315.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, October 20, 2017, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, followed by burial at Avon Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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