Robert "Bob" Willcox

Robert “Bob” Willcox passed away on Saturday, January 21 at Winona Health Services at the age of 91. Born on Aug. 16, 1931 to Calvin and Anna Delveccio Willcox in Blanchard Missouri. When he was 3 years old his father died and his mother along with his 2 older brothers moved to Murray, Iowa. He graduated from high school in 1949 and worked on local farms and the railroad until enlisting in the air force in 1951. Bob served on various Air Force bases from West coast to East coast as well as a tour in Germany. He retired after 20 years. Bob worked for State of Vermont Department of Corrections. In 1957 he married Barbara Reed.

They were later divorced.  In 1970 he married Ardis Cady of St. Albans.

In Vermont he lived on a small acreage with 50 plus apple trees. He was happiest while working in the orchard. He made apple cider which he sold to small grocery stores and the public. He also donated apples to the local elementary schools and the local food bank. He was an active member of the St. Albans Bay United Methodist Church. He enjoyed hunting and going to auctions and square dancing.

In 1995 following retirement he and Ardis moved to Rushford where he enjoyed meeting friends for coffee and watching the wildlife in surrounding areas. He was a member of the Arendahl Lutheran Church and the Peterson American Legion.   

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Ardis; sons Douglas (Delores) North Bend, Nebraska, Jeffrey, Soldotna, Alaska; Stepchildren, DeeAnn Cady (Alan Butler) White Bear Lake, David Cady, Rushford and Paul Cady, Brookland Park; Five grandchildren, Deborah Willcox, Danielle (Adam) Hunnel, Derrick (Rebecca) Willcox, Denise (Joshua) Eads, Dustin Willcox; Four step grandsons, Benton (Cherie), Charles, Erik and Ivan Cady; Also 7 great grandchildren and Barbara Trombley, the mother of his children, sister-in-law, Doris (Robert) Sheeley; as well as his nieces and nephews, other extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Hyllis (Laverne) Cox, 2 brothers, and their wives, John (Alberta) and Ed (Regina) Willcox.