Gordon Willis

Gordon Dale Willis of Portage, MI, passed away on November 24, 2025, just four days shy of his 95th birthday. He was born during the Great Depression on November 28, 1930, in Cadillac, Michigan, the son of Ross and Charlotte (Husted) Willis.

From a young age, Gordon possessed a spirited, outgoing nature that made him beloved in his community. At Cadillac High School, he was deeply involved in sports and student life—playing both offense and defense on the football team as both linebacker and running back, known affectionately as “Cuffy” Willis by his teammates. He also worked on the school newspaper, a role that took him all around town selling advertisements to local businesses. He knew everybody, and everybody knew him.

Gordon began cutting meat at just 11 years old in his father’s store, discovering a lifelong passion for the trade. He often said he never worked a day in his life because he spent his life doing what he loved. That passion guided him to owning and operating the Vicksburg Locker Plant for over 30 years.

Too young to serve during World War II, Gordon decided to join the National Guard at age 17, proudly serving from 1947 to 1957. On February 17, 1951, he married the love of his life, Marilyn Joyce Lamphere. Together, they built a marriage that lasted 72 years, filled with devotion, partnership, and enduring affection.

After moving to Kalamazoo in 1956, Gordon became a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Kalamazoo, where he served for nearly 70 years. Once a month, he and fellow church members prepared meals for Ministry With Community, regularly serving more than 300 people.

Gordon embraced life with energy, humor, and a commitment to staying active. He was a longtime member of the Vicksburg Rotary Club, a dedicated runner who earned the Ultimate Hoofer Award at the Borgess Run for the Health of It, and an avid tennis player who continued playing well into his 80s.

Throughout his life, Gordon remained gregarious, kind, hardworking, and deeply rooted in community. His generosity, character, and warmth touched countless people.

Gordon was preceded in death by his beloved wife Marilyn. He is survived by his younger brother, Paul Willis; his children Randy (Karen) Willis, David (Kathy) Willis, and Debbie (Paul) Guy; as well as grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He leaves behind a legacy of love carried forward by family, friends, neighbors, and community members who will forever remember his bright spirit and unwavering heart.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

While visiting Gordon’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.

The family is being assisted by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane in Portage, MI 49002, (269 344-5600).