Joseph Harry Willson

Joseph Harry Willson, age 82 of Tekonsha, passed away on November 2, 2015 at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall. He was born January 29, 1933 in Hesperia, MI to Leonard and Utah (Young) Willson. On June 25, 1955 Joe married Marilyn Baier in Ferndale, Michigan.

Joe is survived by his wife of 60 years Marilyn. Also surviving are children: Sue Carlson (Keith), Marcia Hoffman (Tim), James Willson (Julia), Jeffrey Willson (Sonja). He leaves behind his loving grandchildren: Daniel Carlson (Tamara), David Carlson (Delora) Jared Willson, Hannah Willson, Courtney Willson, Jordan Willson, Michael Willson, Andrew Willson, Whitney Heard, Hannah Heard, Mende Palmer, Eli Palmer, Addisen Heaven and great granddaughter: Maddison Carlson. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Esther Willson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Utah Willson, and his brother, Emery.

Joe served his country in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. Joe was a dairy farmer his entire life. He was a member of the Michigan Milk Producers Association, Farm Bureau, the NRA, AARP and Ducks Unlimited.

Joe loved draft horses. Most of his life he had a team of horses and enjoyed taking them to fairs to pull in contests.

Relatives and Friends will be received on Wednesday November 4, 2015 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at the Kempf Family Funeral Home, Marshall Chapel 723 Old US 27 N, Marshall, MI 49068. A funeral service celebrating the life of Joe will take place at 11:00 AM on Thursday November 5, 2015 at the Lyon Lake United Methodist Church, 8493 17 Mile Rd. Marshall, MI 49068 with Pastor Robert Stover officiating.

Interment will follow at Lyon Lake Cemetery. A horse drawn hearse driven by his good friend, Billy Van Andel will carry Joe to his final resting place.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the Wounded Warrior Project. Assistance with memorials is available at the Funeral Home. Online messages may be left for the family at www.kempffuneralhome.com