Ionia County MI Archives Obituaries.....Willems, John Anthony July 16, 2005
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Nan Wheaton wheaton1624@yahoo.com June 10, 2017, 5:57 am

Portland Review - July 24, 2005

John Anthony Willems, 46, of Lansing, an inspiration to those whose lives he 
touched, ended his battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) on Wednesday, 
July 13, 2005.

He was born in Chicago, November 24, 1958. He traveled the entire country in his
20-
year career as a truck driver. Always true to his kind nature and heart of gold, he

enjoyed talking with and helping friends and strangers alike.

When his career ended with his diagnosis, John started another chapter of his life 
as a student at Lansing Community College. He became an advocate for the disabled 
and for his community in city government. He was frequently interviewed for 
television broadcasts and newspaper articles to promote the ALS Association, the 
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) and Hospice. John was the honored recipient of

the MDA's 2003 personal Achievement Award for Michigan. He will always be remembered

for his honest manner, his willingness to help others, and ever present smile that 
often turned into a hearty laugh.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald J. Willems and Jean P. Willems. 

John leaves with loving memories his life's true love, Heide Ney; daughter Carah 
Ney; Mary Hyrkas, Jeff Wolgamott and family, and many other cherished friends, too 
numerous to list. Supportive uncles; aunts, extended family members of the Willems,

Henrys, Mercers, Lillies, Leahys, and Sullivans.

Surviving siblings include Don Willems, Jr., James Willems, Mary Grant, several 
nieces and nephews. Deepest gratitude is extended to all of the family, friends, 
neighbors, co-workers, volunteers, medical and hospice staff, who supported John and

Heide throughout his illness.

According to his wishes, John was cremated. A Memorial Mass was held July 23 at St.

Casimir Catholic Church, Lansing, with the Rev. William Lugger, Pastor presiding. 
Arrangements were entrusted to the Schrauben-Lehman Funeral Home, Portland. Online 
condolences may be made at www.schraubenlehman.com.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Lansing, "Lift Aide Fund" 6035 
Executive Dr. Suite 103, Lansing, MI 48911.


Additional Comments:
Age: 46
Services: Mass: 24 July 2005


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