Brian Harris Willey
Visitation: Wednesday, February 9, 2022, from 9-10 AM at the funeral home.
Funeral Service: Wednesday, February 9, 2022, at 10 AM also at the funeral home. At the conclusion of the funeral service, refreshments and hors d’oeuvres will follow at the Colon American Legion. Interment will be private at Lakeview Cemetery in Howell, MI.
Brian H. Willey age 63 of Colon passed away unexpectedly, in his wife’s loving arms, at his home on Thursday, February 3, 2022.
Brian was born on May 30, 1958, in Alma, Michigan, a son to the late George E. and Bertha E. “Betty” (Bremer) Willey.
Brian graduated from John Marshall High School in Portland, Oregon. Following graduation Brian enlisted in the United States Army National Guards. He served his country for 9 years obtaining the rank of Sergeant.
On May 5,1984, Brian married Sharon Wilson at The Old Church in Portland, Oregon. They lived in Portland for 10 years before moving to Bend, Oregon where they raised their three daughters. In 2008 they moved back to Michigan, where Brian wanted to retire and live in his home state.
Brian had a gift to communicate and relate to almost everyone he met, which was proven by a variety of career choices. He worked at Rhone Poulanc Chemical Co. in Portland, Oregon, sold vehicles at Gresham Chevrolet and was an Auto Service Manager at Montgomery Wards. Brian developed a passion for horticulture in high school. That passion along with his entrepreneur mindset led him and his wife, Sharon, to startup and operate two corporate businesses over 25 years. He was President/CEO of Oregon Grounds Management Inc, and Oregon Landscape Supply Co. Following his retirement Brian dabbled in insurance sales between rounds of golf (the above picture was his most recent hole-in-one) and being “Papa” to his grandchildren.
Brian is survived by his wife, Sharon Willey of Colon, MI; daughters: Jessica Bowers, Jacqueline (Max) Willey, and Jennifer (Matt) Peck; grandchildren: Natalie, Audrianna, Parker, Aurora, Kalli, Maddie, Lacey, and Gracie; brothers: Ross Willey and Alan Willey.
Besides his parents George and Bertha “Betty,” Brian was preceded in death by his grandson, Bryan Bowers.
The Willey family will receive friends and relatives from 9-10 AM Wednesday, February 9, 2022, at the Schipper Funeral Home. A funeral service will take place at 10 AM celebrating the life of Brian. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will follow at the Colon American Legion Post 454. Interment will be private and take place at Lakeview Cemetery in Howell, MI.
February 7, 2022 @ 1:17 pm
Our deepest condolences to your family.
February 7, 2022 @ 1:22 pm
Sending love and prayers at this difficult time.
February 7, 2022 @ 3:23 pm
He was a family man, through and through, with a zest for life and fun sense of humor. We’ll always remember our trips to Priest Lake. Some of our best memories have Brian in them. Sending all those who loved him prayers of comfort and peace.
February 7, 2022 @ 6:32 pm
Our sincere condolences to Sharon and family. I will miss Brian. I’m very grateful to have got to have know my cousin the last several years. Jeff & Robin Bertolissi
February 7, 2022 @ 9:03 pm
Brian was not only a wonderful cousin but we became really good friends the past few years. I miss him already and wish Sharon and kids our very best in this tough time.
February 8, 2022 @ 9:36 am
I got to know Brian thru work. Which led us to golfing often where we really became friends. Brian’s perspective was important to me and helped to guide me in work and life. I’m thankful for the time I got to know Brian. He was truly one of a kind. His family meant the world to him as that’s what we talked about most. He had the most positive Outlook on life when even sometimes he could’ve been down.
February 8, 2022 @ 11:54 am
Brian was the best neighbor I have ever had. He was always positive and so helpful to me. He was a family man who enjoyed life. I will miss him.
February 8, 2022 @ 10:02 pm
Sharon, I’m so sorry to hear about Brian’s death. Thinking about you and your daughters and grandchildren during this difficult time.
It was such a nice surprise to see you last summer at Michelle’s house!
Margie Sono
February 15, 2022 @ 8:29 pm
I will miss Brian dearly. We got close over these last 5 years. We had not known each other growing up, despite the fact he is a first cousin, so it was with great surprise when he called me up and we talked for the first time in 50 years! Yet, it was as if we had always been together. We were very happy to visit with him, Sharon, and family, and other cousins a few years back. He is just a warm and caring person and makes you feel as if you had been together forever. He loved his family . Our hearts and prayers go out to the Willey family and Sharon. Please know this family man gave me warm and happy memories for a lifetime!