Obituary of Michael John Willard

 

Michael John Willard

Beloved husband and father

 

Michael John Willard, 65, affectionately known as ‘Bigee Kahuna,’ and ‘The Bulldog,’ passed away surrounded by his family on Sept. 3, 2018.

 

Born in Queens, N.Y., to the late Jean (Seguin) and John Willard, Michael grew up in Newark, N.J., before moving to West Caldwell, N.J., as a teenager, where he met his wife of 42 years, Janet (Hanek), making Fribbles together at Friendly’s. The couple raised their family in Randolph, N.J., before recently retiring to Whiting, N.J.

 

Working as an accomplished C.P.A. and consultant for over 40 years, he also started his own accounting business, servicing a loyal clientele throughout Northern New Jersey.

 

An avid angler, Michael loved to fish and spend his summer vacations at the Jersey Shore with his family. A passionate baseball fan, he enjoyed coaching Little League and watching the Little League World Series every year. He was also quite the chef, baking award-winning apple pies and trying out recipes for new culinary cuisines. He will be best remembered for his sage advice, love of Christmas movies (at any time during the year), and infectious laugh.

 

Michael is survived by his wife, Janet; brother, Richard Willard; three children, Jason Willard (Nancy), Jennifer Willard, and Adam Willard (Kelly), and granddaughter, Alexandra Willard.

 

A memorial service for Michael will be announced at a later date. His family misses him dearly, but knows he is in a better place planning his next delicious meal and ready to hook his biggest catch yet.

 

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Michael’s honor to the American Heart Association, or the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation.

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