Willis "Bill or Jake" Oviatt

Some people achieve greatness by some notable act, something that is recognized in the newspaper or mentioned on the radio. Others, like Willis Oviatt, are quiet heroes, whose great deeds are softly given to the people fortunate enough to have them in their lives.

The stock market crash would forever mark 1929 as the year the Great Depression began. However, it was also the year that Howard and Grace (Brewster) Oviatt of Plainwell, Michigan welcomed the birth of their son, Willis. Born on October 17, 1929, Willis was one of four children and the only boy among three sisters, Dorothy, Pam and Debbie.

After completing his education in the area schools, Willis followed the same patriotic calling of other young men of the time, and enlisted in the U.S. Army, proudly serving his country during the Korean War. It was while in Japan that Willis married his beautiful wife, Fumie Miazaki, on May 4, 1951, and they had five wonderful children together: Charles, Howard, Carol, Charlene and Christine. Besides being a devoted husband and father, Willis was an excellent provider for his family, working for over 30 years for the U.S. Postal Service before retiring as a Supervisor.

Although Willis worked hard, he always took time to play and relax too. He enjoyed peaceful moments reading a good book or working in his garden, or pushing the competitive edge with a round of golf or bowling; he bowled on various leagues for many years. Willis was also a life member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), an association he was very proud to be a part of. Above all though, it was Willis’ family that was the shining beacon in his life. He was always in his glory surrounded by the love and smiles of his precious grandchildren and great grandchildren - they never failed to put a proud smile on his face.

Willis’ hard work provided him with a full and happy life. His family will always remember his kind presence, his loyalty and his warm, loving smile. He will be greatly missed.

Willis E. Oviatt of Shelbyville, MI, age 79, passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2009. Willis is survived by his wife of 58 years, Fumie; three daughters: Carol (Jack) Drummond of Kalamazoo, Charlene (John) Zuydwegt of Otsego, Christine Oetman of Virginia; eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren; two sisters: Pam Cross of Otsego, and Debbie Bennett of Gobles. He is preceded in death by his two sons, Charles Oviatt and Howard Oviatt, and one sister, Dorothy Rupe. A graveside service will be held for Willis at the Hillside Cemetery on Thursday, June 11th at 11 AM. Please visit Willis memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you may share a favorite memory or photo with his family or sign his online guest book. Memorial contributions may be made to the DAV.