Rodger Willett

Rodger L Willett came bounding into this world on May 5, 1954, the third child of Richard "Ray" and Audrey (Kroldart) Willett. He died suddenly on May 31 at the University of Vermont Medical Center after a brief illness.

After studying locally, Rodger enlisted in the military, serving six years with the US Army and National Guard. Best known for his years with the title of "gas man" for Pyrofax Gas Corp, he later retired as maintenance supervisor for Citizen Advocates.

Rodger was always ready and willing to help anyone, go anywhere, do just about anything at any time. Throughout the years Rodger was a member of the Elks Lodge, the Loyal Order of Moose, the American Legion, and various bowling leagues and hunting clubs, and was a member of both the Saranac Lake and Bloomingdale Fire Departments. In his later years you could usually find him at one of the many ballfields or arenas, cheering on the players and just enjoying life. His most precious times were spent making memories with his grandkids, everyone of which he adored. He will surely be missed.

Survivors include his wife Patricia (Gillis), his children Joshua (Jessica) of Saranac Lake and Rodger" (Jessica) of Cadyville, his grandchildren Chelsea (Josh) DeBoover, Evan, Ellie, Elias, Katherine, Haven, Hunter, Grace and Beau Willett, and his great granddaughter Rory DeBoover. He was excited for the upcoming birth of his first great grandson. Rodger is also survived by two sisters, Sharon (Chuck) Bowman and Linda Willett of Florida, brothers Bob (Anne) Willett of Vermontville and Richard (Michelle) Willett of Texas, his mother-in-law Jeannette Gillis of Tupper Lake, his former wife Maggi Trummer, and scores of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Rodger was predeceased by his parents, daughters Jessica Campbell and Adrienne Willett, son Rodger Jason, and granddaughter Alexis Campbell.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake. Per Rodger's wishes, there will be no public calling hours. Memorial contributions in Rodger’s memory can be made to the Saranac Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad, Tri-Lakes Humane Society or your local volunteer fire department.

Those wishing to remember Rodger are asked to raise a cold one in his memory, and he'll be watching. Always remember, live for today because tomorrow is never promised.