James W. Willford

James W. Willford, 74, of Gladwin, Michigan passed away at Mid Michigan Health in Gladwin on Tuesday, December 13, 2016. He was born in Gladwin on January 12, 1942 the son of Gordon & Geneva (Thorington) Willford. On May 23, 1964 he was united in marriage to Lana Dicken in Gladwin. He was a lifetime resident and farmer in Gladwin County. He previously worked as a mechanic for Gladwin Oil Company and Davison Auto in Gladwin. He also was employed with Dow Chemical in Midland for a time, and then worked for Willford Excavating as a heavy equipment operator. He was a member of Farm Bureau and a very talented musician playing with several different bands since he was 16 years old. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Lana Willford of Gladwin; daughter: Rebecca Lynn (Dave) Damzyn of Gladwin; son: Martin (Joannie) Willford of Gladwin; daughter: Suzanne Evans of Gladwin. He was blessed with 8 grandchildren and 2 step great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers: Louis (Deb) Willford; John (Linda) Willford both of Gladwin; sister: Clara “Cookie” Edgar-Gascon (Jim) of Escanaba and several nieces & nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother: Donald Willford. Funeral Services will be conducted by Pastor Phil Hortop on Monday, December 19, 2016, 11:00 A.M. at the Free Methodist Church, Gladwin, Michigan. Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 18, 2016, from 2-8:00 P.M. at the Free Methodist Church, Gladwin, Michigan. Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home, Gladwin, Michigan. www.hall-kokotovichfuneralhome.com