William Howard Willis

William Howard "Bill" Willis, 70, of Auxvasse, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, April 8, 2018, at his home. He was born on September 7, 1947, the son of the late Howard Garth and the late Ialeene Josephine Willis. Bill graduated at Auxvasse High School in 1965, and was president of his class. He drafted in the Army in 1966, and was stationed in Fort Knox, Kentucky. He worked at Champlin's and Tenney's in high school and after returning from the Army, he drove a wrecker. Bill drove and later purchased Moorman's trucks in Auxvasse, then purchased Columbia Materials. He started operating William Willis Trucking in the early 80's. He continued to drive until 2016. Bill was the happiest when he was driving his trucks and spending time with his grandchildren. Bill owned and operated the Blue Star Restaurant and Motel, Willis Bar, and later the VFW. Anyone that knows Bill knew he wore many hats and was nothing short of one of the hardest working people you would ever meet. Bill was known for endless "stories" and always entertaining take on life. Bill always made a lasting impression. His generous heart touched far beyond his friends and family. Bill's memory will be cherished by his wife, Rachelle; daughters, Karen Pryor (Dan) of Blue Springs, Katy Willis (Brent) of Auxvasse, Lindsey Bertels (Ryan) of Jefferson City; son, Zachary Willis (Mehgan) Willis of Auxvasse; step- daughter, Crystal Smithee; step-son, Gregory Coleman Smithee; grandchildren, Allison Pryor, Lauren Harmon (Lane), Olivia Edwards, Kamryn Willis, Bentley Willis and Evelyn Bertels; step-grandchildren, Chevy Smith, Natilie Smith, Cynthia Smithee and Chole Smithee; and great- grandchild, Liam Harmon. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Barbara Jean Dowell. Memorial services will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 13, 2018, at Maupin Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Kummer officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Memorial donations are suggested to North Callaway Fire District c/o Maupin Funeral Home, 301 Douglas Boulevard, Fulton, MO 65251. Condolences may be left for the family at www.maupinfuneralhome.com.