WILLIS CADY obituary

GILDFORD - Willis Warren Cady, 87, of Gildford died peacefully Monday, Dec. 5, 2005 at Liberty County Hospital in Chester.

Willis was born Aug. 30, 1918, at Havre to Harry and Rose (Vosen) Cady. Willis grew up on the family farm, which was located between Gildford an Kremlin. He received his formal education in both communities. Following his graduation from Gildford High School in 1936, he began his life as a full-time Montana farmer.

Willis married Dorothy M. Blanchard on Oct. 16, 1941, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Chester. They made their home in the Gildford community throughout their married life. Although Willis officially retired in 1985, he enjoyed staying active in the farming operations during his retirement years.

Willis was baptized and confirmed in the Catholic faith. He was active in the Gildford community, serving as a volunteer fireman and a member of the school board and water board. He was also a past member of the Havre Eagles Lodge.

Willis was an avid fan of high school athletics. He served as a Hi-Line basketball referee for many years, then became a fixture at the clock, serving as the game timer at Gildford High School and KG High School home basketball games for many more years.

Willis enjoyed his daily trips to the local coffee shop to socialize with his old friends, many of whom affectionately called him “Willie.” In addition, he enjoyed playing cards, especially cribbage, pinochle and whist. He always looked forward to the annual family reunions at Apgar, where he enjoyed quality time with his children and grandchildren. Willis was very content with his life in Montana, although he and Dorothy did take several memorable trips, namely to England and Hawaii. They were loyal companions and best friends during their 64 years together.

Willis was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Helen Gillet, June (Dan) Corbitt and Dorothy (John) McCormick.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy, of Gildford; sons, Gene (Myrna) Cady of Great Falls, Gary (Irene) Cady of Billings, Warren (Dena) Cady of Eagan, Minn., and Charles Cady of Kent, Wash.; five grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters, Lorraine (Bob) Eyman of Clyde Park and Carol (Clifford) Heggen of Kremlin; brother-in-law, Bob Gillet of Great Falls; and many nephews and nieces.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Our Lady of Ransom Catholic Church in Hingham. A graveside service with burial of ashes will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the Highland Cemetery in Havre.

Arrangements by Rockman Funeral Chapel of Chester.