Willison, Erwin B.
Hickory Corners
Erwin B. Willison passed away peacefully at Woodlawn Meadows July 11, 2017. Erwin was born May 25, 1926, the son of Elias and Gladys (Butler) Willison. Erwin was raised on the family farm in Hickory Corners and continued to live in the area the rest of his life. He was drafted into the United States Army in June, 1945 and was honorably discharged in November, 1946. An avid outdoorsman, Erwin enjoyed fishing, especially with his wife, Mildred, and hunting. He owned sporting dogs, the last, a black Labrador named Pam whom he treasured. He and his wife enjoyed twice yearly trips to the Upper Peninsula, mushrooming in the spring and again for the fall color tour. Erwin was a member of the Masons, as well as a founder and lifetime member of the Hickory Corners American Legion Post 484. As a young man, he assisted his grandfather; Samuel Willison, in the family sawmill business located on Mann Road in Hickory Corners. Erwin also assisted him in the thrashing business which traveled with the steam engine to various farms harvesting grains. Erwin was also employed by Peabody Fuel Oil and he was later employed by Clark Equipment, retiring in 1984. Erwin is survived by a daughter: Carolyn Phelps, four grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife; the former Mildred Hill, a son: Dennis, and a grandson: Robert. A graveside service with military honors will be conducted Monday, July 17, 2017, 1:00 PM, at East Hickory Corners Cemetery. Following interment, a memorial gathering and toast to a great life will be at the Hickory Corners American Legion Post 484. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the American Legion Post 484 will be appreciated. Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Erwin’s family.
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