Larry Willets

Larry Lee Willets was born in Creston, Iowa on February 19, 1946, the first-born of 4 children born to Everett Eugene and Florence Lucille (Crittenden) Willets. Larry was raised and educated in Creston and graduated with the Class of 1964 from Creston High School. During his high school years, Larry was an excellent wrestler and was part of the very first Creston wrestling team. He would later be inducted into the Creston Wrestling Hall of Fame, along with his 3 Willets brothers. He was also an avid wrestling supporter and was voted “wrestling fan of the year” several years ago. Larry also made his own skateboard in the 60’s and became known as “Surf” due to his constant “surfing” on his skateboard and his love for the music of the Beach Boys. Following graduation, Larry began college at Southwestern Community College with the idea of becoming an Engineer. Larry graduated from SWCC in May of 1966 and was planning on attending Iowa State University. In June of 1966, Larry was involved in an accident which altered the course of life forever. He worked at the Creston Hospital in the laundry department for a few years and then at Hi-Crest Auto, doing anything he could to be helpful. 

Larry coached Little League baseball and softball and later, men’s slow-pitch and fast-pitch softball. Larry also loved going to the family farm where he could be found swimming in the pond and fishing. The farm was always his favorite place to be and will be his final resting place.

Larry is survived by his brothers: Rod Willets (significant other, Teresa Matheny) of Bedford, Iowa; Jerry (Tammy) Willets of Creston, Iowa and Ted (Kris) Willets of Creston, Iowa; 8 nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends. Larry was preceded in death by his parents.