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Howard Dale Wills, Jr., known to his family and friends as Dale, died Sunday, January 16, 2022 at Brookdale Union Hills in Peoria, AZ. Dale, a Mansfield resident most of his life, moved to AZ seven years ago. He died at the age of 81 following a battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Dale was born December 15, 1940 in Mansfield to the late Bernadene Evelyn (McElhatten) and Howard Dale Wills, Sr. He was a 1958 graduate of Madison High School. Throughout his life, Dale worked for various companies. The majority of his working career was with Artesian Industries in Mansfield as a Quality Assurance Manager beginning in 1963 under the Borg-Warner ownership and leaving in 1995 under the Crane Plumbing ownership. Following, he worked for Barnes and Noble in Ontario helping set up the new store when it was built and becoming a salesperson when the store opened. He then worked at Mohawk Industries until ultimately retiring as the store manager at Direct Maytag in 2002.
Dale was a member of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), the Porsche Club, and the Corvette Club. He enjoyed watching racing, mainly F1 series, and loved going on cruises to Alaska, Mexico, and US Virgin Islands. Dale most recently traveled to Mt. Rushmore and Yellowstone National Park. He also loved being a Junior Achievement Advisor.
On August 27, 1999 Dale married Susan (Barnett) Wills. Sue survives along with his children: Wendi (Jim) Ward of Franklin, WI, Barry Wills of Jacksonville, FL, Geoff (Hillary) Wills of Cleveland, OH, Dan Steele of Winter Haven, FL, and Julie (Wes) Porter of Peoria, AZ; grandchildren: Sarah (Markus) Heinevetter, Anna (Jake) Lathers, Matthew Ward, Mick (Summer) Thomas, Dakota Porter, Dylan Porter, Steven Steele, and Miranda Steele; 4 great-grandchildren with 2 additional on the way; brother: David (Betty) Wills of Mt. Gilead, OH; brothers and sister in laws: Rich (Sandra) Barnett, John (Kathy) Barnett, and Carla (Dave) Viers; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, Dale was preceded in death by his daughter in law: Diana Wills.
Sympathy may be expressed by leaving an online condolence at www.PenwellTurner.com or by leaving a comment on Dale’s obituary on the funeral home’s Facebook page, Facebook.com/PenwellFuneral.
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My deepest condolences to Sue and the family. I had the pleasure of working with Dale and Sue at Artesian Industries in the 80’s and early 90’s. I was a new sales recruit from Kent State and Dale ran our training program before we went out to work in our sales territories. Dale taught us a lot about a lot of things that would help us find success in our sales jobs. I remember Dale and those days very fondly and had so much respect for him as a person and a colleague. May he forever Rest In Peace!
Melvin D Mishey says:
Our condolences to Susan and family on Dale’s passing! I worked with and for Dale at Artesian we’re he was the best boss I ever had! We bought our appliances off of Dale! I had Dale insured for many years! I considered Dale as a friend! I know he will be greatly missed, but I will keep my fond memories of him! Will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers! Melvin and Linda Mishey
Brookdale Union Hills says:
My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. May God give you the peace that you seek. We all miss you Dale
May Christ’s peace comfort you though this tremendously difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Garnett and Larry Fulmer says:
Our prayers and best wishes are with the entire family. Many fond memories. Love
I always enjoyed Dale’s company, and had a great time with him. I will never forget how surprised he was and thankful when i gave him ticket to watch Ohio St buckeys play here in Az he was very appreciative. I will and do miss You my friend.
Cindy & Randy Bridges says:
I had the pleasure of working with Dale for many years back in the Artesian days. Such a wonderful man. There was a lot of great times. It was always great to see Dale and Sue at the steak fry’s at the legion. Lots of great memories. So glad I had the honor of knowing Dale. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Sue and the family.
Dave and Betty we are sorry to hear of your brother’s passing. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.