John A. Willis
May 05, 1950 - May 16, 2018
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John A. Willis
May 05, 1950 - May 16, 2018
Obituary
Johnny Alba “John” Willis
John entered into the care of our Lord and Savior, when he passed away at his home in Ferndale on May 16th, 2018. He was born in California on May 5th, 1950, to Alba and Helen Willis joining his sister and brother, Sharon and Larry.
John’s family moved to Ferndale in 1954, with the start up of Mobil Oil Refinery. He played Little League Baseball for many years and was very proud of his records held during high school track. John graduated from Ferndale High School in 1968.
John fell in love with the cute young lady who was a checker at the grocery store where he regularly shopped. He married her, Vicky Harmon Scheib, in 1979 and gained a son, Ryan Scheib. Later daughters Andrea and Erin were born.
One of John’s passions was watching his children’s sporting events, along with taking the family on camping trips. He loved being outdoors and spending time with his family. John was always a very dedicated and hard worker. From a young age he started working in the berry fields and continued working for Moore’s Blueberry Farm for a few years. He operated Willy’s Tree Farm and a landscaping business from his home on Dahlberg Road. He proudly retired from Intalco (Alcoa) after working over 40 years, where he started as a pot operator and later became supervisor of the pot lines. After retirement, he and Vicky enjoyed working around their farm and horse arena, where they operated a riding arena and stables on their property. Many people benefited from using their facilities. John was a helper and friend to all.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Helen Willis and his in-laws, Lorene and Gene Harmon. He is survived by his loving wife, Vicky; son, Ryan (April); daughters, Andrea and Erin (Scott); grandchildren, Viviana, Renee, Autumn, and Anthony “Tude”; sister, Sharon (Ron); brother, Larry (Polly); and several nieces, nephews, extended family and long-time friends.
I will forever miss you, my love. You were my staunchest supporter and always there for me, Vicky.
A celebration of life to honor John will be held Sunday, July 15th, at Totem Terrace, Alcoa Intalco Works, Ferndale, WA.
15 responses to John A. Willis
Dave Umbaugh says:
May 16, 2018
John was without a doubt one of the best people I’ve ever known. He was a mentor and teacher to me. His willingness to give of himself is unprecedented. Intalco has been through many tough years but when John was in the lead, you knew everything would be alright regardless of the challenges. Thank you John for everything you’ve done.
Charlene Heppell Neustel says:
May 16, 2018
We are so sorry for your loss, we did not know John, hardly at all in fact. But we do know and love Ryan and April. During the years of Ryan’s schooling he spent many hours at our home with my son Randall. Hats off to John as he did a fine job raising that young man. May John rest in Peace.
Splendora Huizenga says:
May 16, 2018
I’m so sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you..
Kathi Barbarino says:
May 16, 2018
I wish I had visited you more before you departed. I always felt comfortable around you and your family. John was a very special person and Grandfather . He is especially Loved greatly by his Grandson Anthony, whom always talked about his Papa John with a big smile on his face, so proud of his Grandpa. It has truly been a blessing to have known John Willis. May you Rest In Peace and May you always have a Light Lighting your way. You will be missed and thought of positively often by all your friends and loved ones. Sincerely, Kathi
Linda Bishop says:
May 16, 2018
VickyTom and I are so very sad to hear about John. He was taken way too soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Tom and Linda Bishop