In loving memory of

Michael L. Willems
December 23, 2010

Date of Birth:  December 3, 1952
Date of Death:  December 23, 2010
Age 58 of Forest Lake passed away on Thursday, December 23, 2010.  Preceded in death by parents, Albert and Clara; brothers, Leroy and Ron; father-in-law, Charles VanCamp. Survived by wife, Barb; children, Michelle (Darrel) Chadd, Joseph (Amy) Willems, Jeffery Willems and Amanda (Christopher) Ferguson; grandson, Oliver Michael Chadd; Sierra; sister, Alberta (Darrell) Bedwell; step-sisters, Helen Bush, Debbie Milak and Lynn Drake; step-brother, Al Willems; mother-in-law, Marian VanCamp; many other relatives and friends.
Gathering of Family and Friends and Memorial Service
Gathering of Family and Friends 4-8 PM Monday, Dec. 27th at Roberts Family Funeral Home, 555 Centennial Dr. SW, Forest Lake and continuing 9 AM -10 AM on Tues., Dec. 28th at the funeral home.  Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM Tuesday, Dec. 28th at St. Peter Catholic Church, 1250 South Shore Drive, Forest Lake. Memorials to American Heart Association and St. Peter Catholic Church.

Tributes

Barb Willems wrote on Dec 3, 2012:

"Happy Birthday Mike. Today you would have been 60. I love you and miss you."

Jane Meier wrote on Jan 23, 2011:

"Barb and family, We are so sorry to hear about Mike. May the many wonderful memories you have bring you comfort today and peace in the days ahead. Please accept our sympathy and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. With Deepest Sympathy, Roger and Jane Meier"

Ron Miller, Post 225 Chaplain wrote on Jan 10, 2011:

"On behalf of American Legion Post 225, Forest Lake, it was a privilege to honor a fellow veteran for his service."

Paula Martin wrote on Jan 2, 2011:

"Barb, I was very sorry to hear about your husband. My thoughts and prayers are with you."

Misty Bell wrote on Dec 31, 2010:

"I was truly sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family during this difficult time. God Bless!"

Kathy Willems Gotter wrote on Dec 29, 2010:

"Although I haven't seen Mike since we were very young, I want to send my condolences to his entire family. I know the loss of a sister and both of my parents. It is so hard but time does help. God keep you in his loving embrace."

Kim Simpson wrote on Dec 29, 2010:

"Joe, my deepest condolences for the loss of your father. God Bless you and your family during this time and always."

Andrea LaGow wrote on Dec 29, 2010:

"Barb - I am very sorry for your loss. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Always remember the good times and don't forget that he will be with you always."

Deb Portner wrote on Dec 29, 2010:

"Barb, I am so sorry to hear about your husband. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray that you will find comfort in the memories that will forever be in your heart and strength in the family and love that surrounds you."

Pam & Ed Chaney wrote on Dec 28, 2010:

"Barb, I am so sorry to hear about MIke. He was such a nice person, and we really enjoyed working with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Take care, and stay in touch."

Tracy Robbins wrote on Dec 28, 2010:

"Joe, I'm so sorry for your loss! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. If you need anything, please let me know. Tracy Robbins"

Nicole Baker wrote on Dec 28, 2010:

"Barb and family~ My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I know that this is a very tough time for you and your wonderful family. I am sending positive thoughts and warm wishes your way during this difficult time. Remember the memories and all of the good times you have spent together and focus on those. He will always be with you in spirit looking over you and your family and providing guidance and love. Let his light shine through. :) Take care, Nicole Baker (RTW)"

Diann Sanders wrote on Dec 28, 2010:

"Dear Barb & family, I am still kind of in disbelief after hearing the news of Mike's passing. My heart cries for you and your family. I think quite often of the days at Economy ~ I reflect on the smiles that you & Mike always brought to the office each day. Those are memories that can never be taken away. I too, lost a loved one on 12/23....only it was my mom. I understand the pain of losing one so close to Christmas. I am praying that God will see you through the days & weeks ahead. My deepest sympathy & love, Diann Sanders (from the Records Dept)"

Susie(Queen)Stock wrote on Dec 28, 2010:

"Barb & Kids, I am so very sorry for your loss. I, too, have many memories of you both at our old camp, Economy in Centralia. I think of you guys quite often and Mike will be missed in this life. Take care and know you are in my thoughts & prayers. Sincerely, Susie"

Melynda Brannan and Family wrote on Dec 28, 2010:

"I am very sorry for you loss. Your family will be in our thoughts."

Mary Sebastian wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"Barb and Family: I am so sorry to hear of your loss. It's really hard to believe. Those old days at Economy were some of the best of my life. Great friends that I will never forget. My heart goes out to you. I wish I could be there tomorrow to say good-bye to a great man and give you a hug. My deepest sympathy. Mary"

Amy Sparks wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"Barb, and family, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Mike. God Bless you and your family. I have alot of memories of both Mike & you from our Economy Days. Take Care of yourself, Amy"

Darrel Chadd wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"Barb, Michelle, Joe, Jeff and Mandy I cannot begin to tell you how sorry I am that this happened. I loved Mike and always held the belief, mostly for my own benefit, that there were many similarities between us. I am comforted by the fact that he spent his last years getting to know his new Grandson. He was a very good man and will be painfully missed. All my love and deepest sympathy."

Angie Hacker wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"To all the family - May your memories give you comfort & strength in this difficult time. Peace, prayers and blessings - Angie"

Jo Ann (Barnes) Smith wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"Barb So sorry for your loss. You & your family are in my thoughts & prayers. I have many good memories of you & Mike from our "Economy" days."

Cathy and Dave Hacker wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"Michele Our family is thinking and praying for your family in its time of need."

Pufalt-Pauley Insurance Agency wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"Barb and family, We have fond memories of Mike at our Agency where he was a great asset to us and a good friend. Our hearts go out to you at this time of loss and we will remember you in our prayers and thoughts."

Kimberly Sudduth wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"My Deepiest Condolances To The Willems Family On Your Loss. Mike Was A Great Pleasure To Work With. I Was Sorry To Hear He Was Retiring & Am Truly Saddened By His Passing. What A Gentle Soul! My Prayers Are With Everyone Who Was Dear To Him. Kimberly Sudduth Chicago, IL"

Janice Dodd wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"Barb and family, My deepest heart-filled sympathy for you and the love ones of Mike. I worked with Mike for many years and truly valued his honesty, sense of humor and good heart towards all mankind. I am truly saddened for you and the family. Should you need to talk, please don't hesitate to contact me. God is still in charge and I know Mike is resting in PEACE. God's Speed! Janice"

Tina and Dan Doerr wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"We are so sorry for your loss. Your family has been in our thoughts and prayers. God bless all of you."

Mara Mundell wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"Barb, Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. Please also know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Mara Mundell"

Robin Diaz wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss, thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I know that words cannot even begin to take away your sorrow, but I hope that your memories give you strength and the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. Sending a warm embrace from my heart to yours."

Teresa Alfred wrote on Dec 27, 2010:

"I was fortunate to share a Cubs game with Mike this past summer on a business trip. It was during that trip I learned of his love for Barb, his family, friends, and life. He was a terrific co-worker and friend and will be greatly missed."

Dick and Valarie Willems wrote on Dec 25, 2010:

"Our sympathy to the family of Mike Willems."

Kathy (McManus) and Tony Edelen wrote on Dec 25, 2010:

"Barb and family. We are so very sorry to hear of your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless"

Katie, Chase, and Cole Childers wrote on Dec 25, 2010:

"Wonderful memories live on from one day to the next....only a thin veil separates our love ones from us....our sadness is lessened by knowing that they are healthy once again and are able to enjoy the presence of all loved ones from Heaven to Earth. One step at a time, one day at a time...your faith lets you know that you will never be walking alone. Much love to all of you!"

Mike and Susan Minor wrote on Dec 25, 2010:

"Dear Barb and family, We are so sorry - words cannot express our feelings at this time of your loss. Please accept our sympathy and know that all of you are in our thoughts and prayers daily. If there is anyhting we can offer or assist with, please just let us know. May you receive some comfort in knowing that many hearts are with you at this time and that we are praying that God continues to hold you close. Susan, Mike and Michael Minor"

Judie Babcock wrote on Dec 25, 2010:

"Barb and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mike was a co-worker and I will miss his laugh and his ability to see many sides of an issue. We were looking forward to hearing of his joy at retirement... now we know that he's had a more perfect healing than expected through this transition. May the peace of the Lord infuse your family as you move through the grief. Let the love and memories fill you with the hope and promise of the life ever lasting. Bless you abundantly."

Mary Guy wrote on Dec 25, 2010:

"Barb and family, Mike and I are so very sorry to learn the news of Mike's passing. Although it has been too long since we have visited with your family we think about you often. Please know that you are in our prayers during this sad time. Mary and Mike Guy"

Tiffany Kirk (formally Willems) wrote on Dec 24, 2010:

"I last saw Uncle Mike and Aunt Barb when we had the service for my dad Leroy and Uncle Ron a few years ago. I remember the feelings of loss and sadness when my dad died and offer my deepest condolences to Aunt Barb and my cousins. No words can ease the pain you are feeling right now but know that my heart breaks for you in this time of sadness. Although I do not know that many of the Willems side, I am here for any of my cousins should you need to talk or just need an ear to listen to you. We are a family and I hope that my feelings of sorrow for you help you even if it is just for a moment."