Willard was born July 13, 1926 in Newburg, WI the son of Edwin and Edna Bretschneider Janke. On August 23, 1947 Willard married the former Genevieve Tanner in Grafton, WI. Willard served his country by serving in the U.S. Army Corps during World War II, the Korean Conflict and serving in the South Pacific Theater. Willard retired in 1982 after working for more than 31 years at Rockwell International. Willard was a dedicated husband, a loving father and grandfather. Willard got most of his enjoyment from his family and spending time with them.
Willard is survived by his wife Genevieve; his son, David Lisa Janke of Saginaw, TX; three daughters Barbara Reginald Robinette of Larsen, WI, Sharon Robert Murphy, Kathie (her fiance Brian Schutzendorf both of Oshkosh; 14 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; six brothers and sisters Kenneth Vivian Janke, Doris Krueger, Lavern Gerek, Bernice Frank Haupt, Edward Phyllis Janke, Richard Joann Janke; one sister-in-law, Joanne (Donald) Kempken; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Willard was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson, Bryan Robinette. Funeral services for Willard will be celebrated at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, at Fiss & Bills Funeral Home with the Reverend Joel Olsen from St. John Lutheran Church officiating.
Family and friends may call at Fiss & Bills Funeral Home after 12 noon on Wednesday. Burial will be in Lakeview Memorial Park.