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Carl David Willett (Moose) passed away peacefully on his own terms Saturday, January 9, 2021 at the age of 86 with his family at his side. He lived a full and meaningful life as a loving husband, father and grandfather.
Born on October 6, 1934 in Fond du Lac, WI, Carl was the son of Leo and Rose Steffes Willett and the middle of five siblings. He graduated from Goodrich High School in 1953.As a youth Carl excelled in sports and was giving the nickname Moose. He went on to serve as a Marine in the Korean War from 1954-1956. After returning home he went to work for the Soo Line Railroad as a switchman and brakeman for 40 years. He loved hauling the freight of the nation.
Carl married the love of his life, Mary Ellen Lake, on February 13, 1960 at St. Patrick’s Church in Fond du Lac. He was a wonderful father and taught his children the value of hard-work, generosity and determination. As a family, they cherished summer camping trips together traveling across the country and spending time in Lake Tomahawk where Carl and Mary retired in 1995. He loved his wood-working shop, trimming trees and driving around on his Gator visiting the neighbors. Over the years, Moose’s garage hosted numerous events, including the infamous GMO (Greater Moose Open), where hundreds would come over on the 4th of July to enjoy a little family fun. Carl had a great sense of adventure, he loved to travel and talked often about his favorite trip traveling on the Trans-Siberian Express across Russia, Mongolia and China. Later in life he enjoyed his winters in Sarasota with his Florida family and friends.
Moose was loved by all that knew him. He was generous with his time and wood-working skills, his projects will live on in many people’s homes. After the work was done, he enjoyed playing cards, horseshoes and talking smart with friends. He was a member the Holy Family Church (Woodruff), Lions Club and the NewTomSnowfleas Club in the Lake Tomahawk.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Willett, four children; Tim (Lori) Willett, Kathy (Greg) Leifer, Mike (Sarah) Willett and Mary (Dave) Schmitz and eight grandchildren; Taylor, Sam, MaryRose, Jessica, David, Jake, Ben and Cole. He is also survived by his brother-in-law John Lake. Preceding him in death are his parents; Leo and Rose Willett, parents-in-law John and Wilma Lake and four siblings; Audrey, Bob, Ron and Dave.
He will be missed by many, but most of all by his children and grandchildren. As Pa would say, “Get out of bed and get to work!”.
Due to the current Covid situations his funeral will be delayed until this summer when we can all gather to celebrate and honor his life.
Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com
NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES OF WOODRUFF, WI IS SERVING THE FAMILY.
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Nimsgern Funeral Home | 1025 Margaret Street | PO Box 230 | Woodruff, Wisconsin 54568
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