Robert Edward Willis, 60

Robert Edward Willis, 60, beloved son, friend, brother, father and grandfather passed away July 1, 2014 at his home in Missoula.

 He was born on December 14, 1953 to Leon and Faye Smothermon in Houston, Texas, the youngest of 10 children. After Faye’s death he was adopted by his aunt and uncle Amie L.  and James F. Willis. As a young boy Robert enjoyed building model cars, sketching, and fishing.

 Robert joined the Navy in 1971 and served his country well during four years of the Vietnam conflict. He was proud of his time of service and believed strongly that the United States was blessed with God’s grace and protection.

 After his honorable discharge he attended Northwest Bible College in Kirkland, Washington to pursue his study of the Bible. During that time he met his future wife Sandra Forrest. They were married on February 1, 1980 and from that union had two children, Amie and John, who were his pride and delight. He took every opportunity to let those around know how much he loved them.

 Robert was an accomplished welder and millwright and worked for the Asarco Silver Mine and on many bridges with the Carpenters Union throughout the northwest. After a disabling car wreck he moved to Missoula and attended Sovereign Hope Church. His greatest joys were spending time with his children and grandson, being with his church family, singing, and loving God with all his heart.

 Robert was preceded in death by his birth parents Faye and Leon Smothermon, his father James F. Willis, brothers Doug Willis, James, Jimmy and Clifford Ray Smothermon, and sisters Doris Hill and Linda Kalmus.

 He is survived by his mother Amie L. Renk of Houston, daughter Amie Wells, her husband Michael and their son Ryan, son John Willis and wife Samantha all of Troy; niece Tiffiny Willis, and sisters Faye (Johnny) Watson, Lavada (Monte) Burke, Martha (Floyd) Shropshire, and Jeannie (Doug) Alexander all of Texas.

 A memorial service will be held on July 18, at 5 p.m. at Sovereign Hope Church in Missoula.