Walter C. Willett

Walter Chester Willett, age 67, of Elkhart , passed away in his home on July 26, 2018 due to complications related to Multiple System Atrophy.  Walt is survived by his wife, Charlotte Willett; his children, Rachele (Brent) Fraker, David (Jamie) Willett, and AJ Willett; his grandchildren, Fiona Willett and Theodore Fraker; and his siblings Jeanne (Jim) Solomon, Sandra Stutheit, Anita (Richard) Fonnet, and Martin Willett.  He is predeceased by his parents, Walter and Jean Willett.

Walt was born on July 2, 1951 in Henderson, Kentucky and raised in Southern California .  In 1969, he graduated from John Glenn High School where he excelled in woodworking and was a photographer for the school paper. After finishing school, he entered the trades as a tile setter. In his late twenties, he began attending Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, California and met his future wife, Char, at Bible study .  The two were married June 6, 1981 and were blessed with three children.  In 1990, he moved his wife and children to Elkhart to reunite with Char's family.  Here he continued his career as a skilled tile setter for 14 years. In 2013, Walt was diagnosed with Multiple System Atrophy, a rare and aggressive neurological disorder.  He spent the last five years of his life in the comfort of his own home and in the tender care of his wife .

Walt was a loving husband and devoted father.  He expressed his ingenuity and creativity in woodworking and volunteered his knowledge of the trades to help his family members and church community.  He loved camping and thoroughly enjoyed cycling, antiques, and playing cards.

Despite the tragic nature of his disease, Walt endured it with uncommon grace, humility, and strength.  He will be remembered for his endearing humor, faithful commitment to his family, and his steadfast faith in Jesus Christ.  His personal journey with Christ sustained him to the end of his life and served as an inspiration to those around him . He passed away in peace eagerly awaiting the promise of his salvation.  He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

A memorial service is scheduled for Wednesday, August 1, 2018, at 6:00 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, 1911 South Main Street, Goshen.  Chaplain Neil Davis will officiate.  Visitation with the family will be held from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. prior to the service.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be offered to Faith Mission of Elkhart or Calvary Radio Network in Walt’s honor.

“But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”  1 Corinthians 2:9