Obituary: Jeanne Ellen Willman
July 7, 1931 – December 2, 2024
Jeanne Ellen Willman, 93, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2024. Born on July 7, 1931, in Exeter, Pennsylvania, she was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Jeanne was known for her devotion to her family and her unwavering faith. She is survived by her loving daughter, Melinda Willman, and her cherished grandchildren: Aaron Willman, Sarah Willman Barbour, Shane Burdette, Kayleigh Burdette Kerbs, Elisa Burdette Culver, and Amanda Willman Starbuck. She also leaves behind her adored great-grandchildren: Asher Kendrick, Oliver Barbour, and August Starbuck. Jeanne was predeceased by her parents, Charles and Ruth Bortz, her sister, Ruthie Bortz, her beloved husband, C. Lee Willman, and her sons, Thomas Willman and Dwight Willman. Jeanne married her husband, C. Lee Willman, on November 12, 1949. The Willman family resided in Wyomissing, PA, before relocating to Columbia, MD, in 1973 and eventually settling in Steamboat Springs, CO, in 1991. Jeanne had a passion for sports from an early age, excelling in basketball and field hockey during high school. In her later years, she enjoyed playing tennis, racquetball, and pickleball. She also had a deep love for the outdoors and found great joy in fishing. A lifetime artist, Jeanne won numerous County fair ribbons for her beautiful paintings, continuing her artistry until her final days. Additionally, she played the accordion and piano, filling her home with music and joy. Jeanne also delighted in preparing food and baking for her family, creating cherished memories around the dinner table. An active member of her local churches and Bible study groups, Jeanne’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a dedicated caretaker to her parents, her husband Lee, his father, and her grandchildren, and found great joy in homemaking. Jeanne’s life was a testament to her love for her family and God. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Concordia Lutheran Church, 755 Concordia Ln, Steamboat Springs, CO, with a reception to follow. Interment will be on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Steamboat Springs Cemetery, 1500 Cemetery Dr, Steamboat Springs, CO, at 2:00 pm.
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