Jack Ervin Willis' Obituary
In Loving Memory of Jack
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jack E. Willis, a beloved father, patriarch, friend, and pillar of our family. He left this world in peace on the afternoon of September 16, 2023, at the age of 76, in South Jordan, UT.
Born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, on July 6, 1947, to Marvin Wilce Willis and Beatrice Opal Willis, Jack was a man of remarkable character and unwavering kindness. He was a devoted husband to Linda Willis for 28 years and a doting father to two children: Nicole Willis and Adam Willis. His dedication to his family was unparalleled and his love and support were the guiding beacon of our lives.
Jack was a man of many talents and passions. He had an unwavering curiosity and thirst for knowledge, which led him to graduate from McClain High School in 1965 and Northeastern State University in 1970. At the beginning of his professional career in Tulsa, OK, he was a health inspector and focused on Urban Development. After moving to Salt Lake City, UT around 1970, he founded Community Development Associates, where he wrote environmental impact statements for cities across the Wasatch Front, and established Park City and Midvale historic districts. He was a true Renaissance man, always eager to explore new horizons and share his wisdom with those around him.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jack was known for his generous spirit and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Through these qualities it allowed him to touch the lives of countless people with his warmth and compassion and left those in his presence feeling a lasting embrace of contentment and love. Often sharing his profound affinity for anything with a motor and wheels, fishing, and good conversation, he was known to attract company anywhere he went.
In his early years, Jack enjoyed fast cars, dirtbikes, skiing, football, camping, and “busting his knuckles” under the hood of the cars. Frequently encouraging others to join him in these pursuits. Later in life, he enjoyed attending his children’s activities, caregiving, landscaping, boating, watching wildlife from his rocker, feeding deer, and most of all relishing time with his grandchildren. Whether amongst family, friends or strangers, his laughter was infectious, and his presence lit up any room he entered.
Jack's legacy of love, kindness, and perseverance will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a family who will cherish the memories of his love and wisdom forever. His memory will be kept alive by his children, Nicole and Adam (Stephanie); his five grandchildren: Savannah, Haddie, Milo, Penny and Greta; siblings, Carol Stoddard (Will), Patricia Simkins (Gary), and Larry Willis (Rachel). All of whom will carry forward his values and teachings.
A celebration of Jack's life will be held on October 14, 2023, from 10:30AM to Noon at Sagewood at Daybreak, 11289 Oakmond Road, South Jordan, UT 84009. The celebration is a casual affair.
If desired, the family requests any photos or memories of Jack be sent to his children Nicole and Adam, to commemorate him and heal the void in our hearts.
As we bid farewell to Jack, we take solace in knowing that his spirit will forever live. He was a shining example of the best that humanity has to offer, and his memory will continue to inspire us all.
Rest in peace, dear Jack. You will be dearly missed, but your love will never fade.
With love and fondness,
The Willis Family
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