On Sunday, January 4, 2009, Mike left us to meet the Lord after a short but valiant battle with Brain Cancer. Mike requested the Celebration of his life be held at the church he treasured, Prestonwood Baptist Church. The service will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2009 at 11:00 am at 6801 W Park Blvd, Plano, TX 75093. A visitation with the family will be held Tuesday, January 6, 2009, between 5:00 and 7:00 pm, at Turrentine-Jackson- Morrow Funeral Home located on Highway 75, exit 38, Ridgeview Drive, Allen, Texas. Mike was born in St. Paul, Minnesota on September 24, 1947. He was the baby of the family and doted on by his brother Ronald Willett and loving sister, Delores Nord. He was preceded in death by his mother Elizabeth Willett and father Lawrence Willett. He entered the US Army in 1968. He quickly replaced his nervousness with pride and was awarded several medals of honor for his devoted service. Mike had a continuous zest for life. He didn’t just have friends; he loved them all with a passion and they all loved him. We have been amazed by the overwhelming outreach by his friends, colleges, and even acquaintances. He always had time to share a good story, details of the day or just a quick laugh. There was never a bad time for a hearty Breakfast, glass of scotch, Cowboys game or a good prank. He had a keen appreciation for crossword puzzles with black coffee in the morning, playing cards with Delores and anyone else they could draft, throwing kids in the pool, a church gathering, an in-house family waterfight or an HBA party. Upon arrival to Texas, the family joined Prestonwood Baptist Church where Mike immediately planted spiritual roots. He made deep and valuable friendships which he cherished. He felt honored to be an Usher and volunteered at as many church events as possible. Mike’s unwavering faith in Jesus Christ could be seen and heard by all that ever came in contact with him. He had an amazing strength and relationship with the Lord and continuously said “I am so Blessed”. Mike was also a member and leader of the Greater Dallas area Home Builders Association. He loved the home building industry with a passion. The friends he made through the building industry filled his adult life with some of his most exciting and entertaining times. He built very special bonds that have grown even more tight through the thick and thin of the industry. Mike was an amazing father and husband. He changed his life for the betterment of his kids and for that we will be forever thankful. There are too many amazing trips, talks, events, jokes and special moments than can be explained. We will never forget any of them. We thank our dad dearly for his love, encouragement and life lessons. However, more than anything in this world, he loved his wife, Rita. They touched each other’s lives so deeply everyday, every look and every smile. She was his best friend, soul mate, and love of his life. We, his family, friends, and everyone he touched, will miss you. In his immediate family, he leaves behind his wife, Rita Willett, 3 children, Jason (son) and Christie Willett, Michele (daughter) and Brent Gaynor, and Derek (son) and Heather Willett. He also has five adoring grandchildren: Preston and Alex Willett, Blake and Drew Gaynor, and Noah Willett. His memory may be honored by a gift to Prestonwood Christian Academy or the Make a Wish foundation of North Texas.