Robert Paul Willis

Robert Paul Willis, 71, died at his home in Elko, Nevada on December 19, 2021.

Bob was born April 4, 1950 in Glendale, California to Martha “Marty” Hickle and Walter “Walt” Willis. His father left the family when he was young, so he took on the role of prankster-in-chief. It would surprise his new stepfather when he tossed live firecrackers at his feet, with Bob‘s devilish laughter heard as he made his getaway!

While in his younger days, his mischievous sense of humor often got him a lot of laughs or into trouble, sometimes resulting in a conversation with his steel-toe boots. Bob was handsome, charming and chivalrous, which was a hit with the ladies. Sometimes, he even married them.

Bob was known for working hard (professionally, as an electrician), being famously opinionated, his entertaining stories and for his extensive four-letter vocabulary.

After a long day at work, it was common to see him with a truck full of his kids going to find a local swimming hole. He was the father and stepfather of eight kids. They are Tyra Willis, LaTonya Willis, Michelle M. Roy, Jason DeSilva, Christy DeSilva, Sasha Schuman, Jake Schuman and Kayla Schuman; Grandkids are Shayla, Tristan, Jessica, Alyse, Erica, Holly, Eden and Dustin. Great-grandson is Jacob Holisger; and, special niece and nephew, Stayce (Willis) Peterson and John Robert Bunce.

He leaves behind a wife of 24 years, Karen (Marry) Willis, who his kids will agree was the best thing to ever happen to him. 

A cold beer, a good steak dinner and a good flick. Playing the odds at the casino or dancing and singing along to a good rock tune. Taking a shot of good whiskey. Those are things that he enjoyed, but he will mostly be remembered for being a stand-up guy. A loud, unapologetic, stand-up guy with a wicked sense of humor. And, a full head of hair.

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