Edward A. Willits

Edward Alfred Willits, 80, of Camanche, died peacefully at the Clarrisa Cook Hospice House on Tuesday, March 4th, 2008. Ed was born in Clinton, on April 23rd, 1927, son of the late Clara and Clyde Willits. He grew up on 13th Avenue South in Clinton. As a boy, he spent many hours at Scotts Automotive Shop. He liked to tell the stories about his career as a luggage boy for the Chicago Northwestern Railway before going off to WWII. As a 17 year old, Ed joined the US Navy, serving on the destroyer USS Crane. He later began his own heavy equipment business, Willits Enterprises. Ed liked to travel and would share maps and stories of his adventures with all who would listen. Private funeral services for his family and friends will be held at The Lemke Funeral Home, South Chapel. Burial will be in Clinton Lawn Cemetery. Survivors include one sister, Sue Kennedy of Clinton, one brother, Robert Willits of Lorida, Florida, and several nieces and nephews. He was formerly married to Teresa Frett. He will be remembered by many, most especially Teresa McCutcheon, Julie Ricklefs, Jacque Willits, who cared for Ed with diligence and thoughtfulness, and Norma Stauffer, a close friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers LeRoy Willits and Vern Willits Sr., and three sisters, Betty Dostal, Carmen Prosser and Ellen Benson. The Family asks that memorials may be directed to the Clinton Humane Society or to your favorite charity. The Lemke Funeral Home, South Chapel, is in charge of the arrangements. Online at www.lemkefuneralhome.net