Willard J Kroetsch

Mr. Willard J. Kroetsch, 99 of Snover passed away Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at United Hospice Service Residence in Marlette.

            He was born on June 20, 1921 at home in Moore Township to the late Charles and Hilda (Hergott) Kroetsch. He married Shirley Gilbirds on August 22, 1947 at St. Joseph Church in Argyle.  She preceded him in death on September 22, 2020.

             Willard was a graduate of Urban Country School, was a lifelong farmer helping his family as well. He joined the U.S. Navy and Sea Bees construction unit of the Navy. Willard enjoyed his family where he was soft spoken and a gentle soul. He also enjoyed fishing, played baseball where he was well known for his playing skills and played the fiddle in an orchestra with his brother.

            Willard is survived by his children, DeAnn Blank of Snover, Marie (Michael) Stock of Rives Junction, MI, Charles Kroetsch of Snover, William (Janet) Kroetsch of Decker; granddaughter, Jennifer Anderson of Tampa, FL; 3 step grandchildren, Jeremy and Adam Helton, Gary Grates; former daughter-in-law, Donna Lacey of Venice Beach, CA. Sister, Kathleen Rich, Brother Jerome Kroetsch, sister in law, Suzanne Kroetsch

            He was preceded in death by one grandson, David Kroetsch, Sisters Ruth (Scott) Westbrook and Helen (Gerald) Reinielt, Brothers, Wilfred, Leon (Georgine) Kroetsch, Joe Kroetsch and brother in law Sam Rich.

            Mass of Christian burial for Willard will be 1 PM, Friday, November 13, 2020 at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Good Shepherd Parish in Argyle. Rev. Nate Harburg, pastor of Good Shepherd Parish will officiate. Willard’s final resting place with be next to his beloved wife, Shirley, in the St. Joseph/St. Ignatius Catholic Cemetery in Freiburg.

            Visitation will be at the church in Argyle on Friday from 10:30 AM until 1 PM.

            Please consider making a donation in Willard’s memory to Good Shepherd Parish or United Hospice Service of Marlette.