Obituary of Wayne K. Willard

Wayne K Willard 76 of Cuyler, NY passed away peacefully at home on September 24, 2020. He was born June 23, 1944 in Massena NY, son of the late Kenneth Willard and Evelyn Murray. He was raised in the DeRuyter/Cortland area and after high school graduation he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he proudly served from 1962-1966. He was later in the National Guard from 1978-1979. He was also a proud member of American Legion Post 894 in DeRuyter. Before his retirement he was employed at Smith Corona for 23 years. After Corona closed he worked in the Utica/Rome area before retiring from Upstate Medical Hospital in Syracuse. He spent most of his working years bowling and was on several different leagues. He loved to go fishing and spent a lot of time on the water with his brother and anyone who would go with him. He was an avid card player who always carried an extra deck of cards and poker chips in his car. He was overly punctual, usually arriving 30 minutes early. He loved being surrounded by his family telling jokes and playing cards. And he always made sure to mail everyone a birthday and Christmas card. Wayne is survived by his brother Frank (Nancy) Willard of MA, brother Robert (Bob) Willard of Cuyler, NY, long time friend Sharon Thayer of Utica, NY, his children Lynnette Rickert of Pitcher, NY, Wayne (Adam) Rickert of PA, Kurt (Kelly) Willard of Groton, NY, Teresa Willard of Pitcher, NY, Renee Willard (Zeke Phoenix) of Moravia NY, and Amy Thayer of Utica NY, nieces, a nephew and several grand and great grandchildren The family would like to give a big thanks to the VanDee family of Cuyler for remaining family to Wayne and Hospicare, notably nurses John Hughes and Kim who showed much care and compassion in his final days. Per his request there will be no services. Anyone who would like to make a donation in his name can be made to American Legion Woodford Burdick Post 894 at 1661 Seminary Rd, DeRuyter NY 13052