Steven P. Willis passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital at the age of 70 after battling some ongoing health issues. He was born on February 12, 1953, to the late John and Jacqueline (Yaatenen) Willis in Houston, Texas. Steve attended and graduated from Merrill High School. Steve met the love of his life, Carol Ellenbecker and the two lovingly exchanged marriage vows on November 24, 1972, in Merrill, their union lasting 50 years. She survives. Steve had a passion for music and was a musician himself. He was a guitarist and singer in various bands. Steve and Carol embarked on new adventures, traveling throughout the United States and internationally for over 27 years. Many adventures were shared alongside their close friends, Mike, and Sue Kunkel. Steve was known as a “computer whiz” and fixed computers for family and friends, but also was in IT systems control at WPS until his retirement. He was a jack of all trades and was a great handyman to have around. Steve was a very detail-oriented and efficient person, which he masterfully paired with his humor and wit. He was a loving man that was patient and understanding, as well as generous and helpful in every way that he could. His family was his world. Steve will be greatly missed, but his love and laughter will live on in our stories.
Steve leaves behind his loving wife, Carol; brother, Michael (Chris); daughter, Jamie (Jim); sons, John (Sara) and Steve M; grandchildren, Austin (Becca), Keia, Avery, Asher, and Leah; great grandson, Bennett; sisters-in-laws,Dorsy, Kitty, Jeanne, Judy (Bill), Carol; brothers-in-law, Joe, and Tony, along with numerous extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Patrick and brothers-in-law, Junior, Louie, Dennis, and Pete.
The funeral liturgy for Steve will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill. Deacon Jim Arndt will officiate. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023, from 9:00 AM-11:00 AM. Burial will immediately follow the liturgy and will take place at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery in Merrill. No flowers please, family suggests any donations in Steve’s name be directed to a charity of your choice instead. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Family would like to encourage people to share their stories of Steve and condolences in the guestbook on our website www.waidfuneral.com.