Wayne Willis Obituary

Wayne Storey Willis, age 92, passed away on November 1, 2024, in Logan, Utah. He was born on June 29, 1932, in Ogden, Utah, to Joseph Cheney Willis and Florence S. Willis.

Wayne's life was enriched by his loving marriage to Joyce Brown Willis, whom he met while they both were serving as LDS YSA Representatives. They were married in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on November 21, 1961. Joyce preceded him in death on February 2, 2000.

Throughout his lifetime, Wayne lived in various places, including Utah, Georgia, Texas, and England. He was an accomplished individual, earning two master's degrees: one in Civil Engineering from Utah State University and another in Hydraulic Engineering from Georgia Tech. His professional journey included significant roles at Brown and Root in Texas and the City of Houston in Civil Engineering. Wayne retired from the Bureau of Reclamation in 1994.

Wayne proudly served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force from August 1954 to August 1956. He grew up on a ranch in Laketown, where he had a deep connection to nature, often raising and herding sheep. He loved spending summers at the sheep camps in the mountains grazing the herds for weeks on end. In addition to his early experiences, Wayne cherished his time as a missionary in Western Canada from February 1957 to February 1959 and enjoyed serving overseas in Europe during his military service.

A dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Wayne volunteered many years at the Ogden and Brigham City Temples and the Salt Lake Road Home, demonstrating his commitment to service. He found joy in community activities, including attending the annual Box Elder County Fair and cherishing moments spent around old tractors and college sports, particularly basketball, women's volleyball, and softball.

Wayne is survived by his children: Roger Willis, Kent (Jennifer) Willis, and Sharon (Tom) Perkins; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Joyce, his parents J. Cheney and Florence Willis, and his siblings Margaret Foy, and Roland Willis.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 11 A.M., with viewings on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 6-8 P.M. and prior to the service from 9:45-10:45 A.M. All services will take place at the Bear River City Church (5870 N 4700 W- Bear River City). Interment will follow at Laketown Cemetery at approximately 3 P.M. The service will be livestreamed and can be accessed below.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the hospitals and staff who provided care for Wayne, as well as to the many friends he shared joyful moments with at dances and dinners, which greatly enriched his life.