Robert Lee Willson

Robert Lee Willson, 44, Archie, Mo., formerly of Walker, passed away at his home on Friday, Dec. 5, 2014, following a lengthy illness. Rob was born on April 11, 1970, in Nevada, Mo., to Gilbert Lee and Eleanor (McDermott) Willson. He was united in marriage to Allison Lee Barnett on Jan. 6, 1996, in Nevada, and she survives of the home.

Rob grew up in Vernon County and attended school in Walker, graduating from Walker High School Class of 1988. Even at a young age Rob was very active in 4-H and helping with the family farm, and he loved playing baseball, basketball and running track in high school. Following high school, Rob joined the United States Navy for a short time before leaving due to a medical discharge. At that time he attended Fort Scott Community College for two years then transferred to Pittsburg State University where he was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity.

Throughout his life, Rob worked in education teaching Industrial Technology at several different schools. Because of his love of sports he coached high school basketball, baseball, softball and volleyball and also a competitive traveling softball team for his daughters. He enjoyed umpiring baseball and softball games throughout the area.

Rob was a Technology Student Association sponsor at Archie High School and served on the Technology Student Association State Board. He was also an active participant of the Elks Lodges in Nevada and Harrisonville.

In addition to his wife, Allison, Rob is survived by four daughters, Kelsey, Emily, Breanne, and Claire, of the home; his parents; one sister, Debbie Wheatley and her husband, Marty, Tijeras, N.M.; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 11, at Marvin Chapel Cemetery, Nevada, with the Rev. Bill Platt officiating. An Elk service will be held at 6 p.m., Tuesday, at the Dickey Funeral Home, in Harrisonville, with visitation following until 8 p.m. The family will also receive friends on Wednesday, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Ferry Funeral Home, in Nevada.

Contributions may be made in his memory to the Archie High School Scholarship Fund in care of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com.