Willie Frank Nearn, Sr.

Willie Frank Nearn Sr. was born on April 10, 1941, in Leachville, Ark., the son of James Daniel and Rosie Mae (Ferguson) Nearn. He was proud of his eight years of service in the Air Force.

Willie passed to his new life on Monday, May 9, 2016, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.

Willie was married twice. His first wife and mother of his children was, Judith Frye, and his second wife, was Patricia Noreikis. Both marriages ended in divorce, but he remained close friends with both.

His children are: Cindy Lee Nearn Fairbanks, Jody Maxcine Nearn, Willie Frank (Rena) Nearn Jr. and John Daniel (Nicki) Burfield. His grandchildren are: Joshua (Michelle) Fairbanks, Sunny Fairbanks, Zachery Nearn, Alexandria (Doug) Burfield Whitsel, Frankie Nearn, John Burfield II, and Mackenzie Burfield; great-grandchildren are: Logan Fairbanks, Peyton Fairbanks and Doug Whitsel II. Also surviving is a great-nephew, James (Pam) Nearn and their children: Heidi, Rebecca and Kenneth; a niece, Wanda Lester; an adopted niece, Janice Russell; and many other nieces; and nephews.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents; eight sisters; and one brother. We will miss you greatly daddy/grandpa especially at our family get-togethers and at our poker games. Willie lived his life...doing it his way.

The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.