Lawrence "Willy" J. Wilson

Lawrence J. “Willy” Wilson Generous, helpful, caring, gentle, unfailing, forgiving. Such was Lawrence “Willy” Wilson until surrendering to his failing body on October 18, 2022. He left behind five siblings, six nieces and nephews and their children, several godchildren, and more friends than he could count. They often described him as “one of the best people I ever knew. ” Born on March 20, 1950, in Missoula, MT, Larry was the fourth of seven children reared by Angela “Gil” and Adrian Wilson. After graduating from Hellgate High School, Larry enlisted in the Navy. He flew from aircraft carriers as a member of the Air Anti-Submarine Squadron for six years during the Vietnam conflict. His buddies called him “Willy” and the name stuck. After the Navy, he owned an Exxon Station in San Diego for about a decade, when he returned to Missoula where he and his brother Donald lived in the family home in the lower Rattlesnake. Willy loved cars, especially old ones, he loved talking about cars, and loved watching car shows and Nascar (or any race). He babied his beloved 1971 Firebird—license plate “Got Wings”—for nearly 50 years. He loved driving the Firebird down the Lochsa or across the desert from San Diego to Phoenix. He relished the car shows and cruises and camaraderie that went with being a member of the Lolo Shifters. An excellent auto mechanic, friends came to him for repairs, rebuilds, recommendations, and mentoring. Willy seemed compelled to improve the lives of others. Friends, family, even near strangers would seek his assistance, and he would step up, finding used cars, loaning tools, giving money. He was especially supportive of his fellow Vietnam Vets. Rarely was the driveway empty of the cars of visitors. Willy took his role as godparent seriously and loved his six godchildren. He enjoyed cooking and sharing food and made an awesome huckleberry pie. We remember the back yard parties, sitting at the huge picnic table and enjoying the delicious food, gorgeous yard and amazing view. If Willy couldn’t do the cooking, he was happy just orchestrating the events. Willy leaves behind his younger brother and devoted caretaker Donald; his other beloved siblings, Barbara Gorsh (Joseph), Dean Wilson (Judy); Lynnette Ludviksen (Jon), and Charmaine Wilson (TJ Voss); as well as his nieces, nephews, their children, his godchildren, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Carol Overcast (Louie). The family extends our thanks to Willy’s friends, many of whom are considered family; his caretakers, especially Tammy; the many VA medical staff who provided care, and all who helped. Please direct memorial contributions to the Missoula Food Bank at missoulafoodbank. org. Interment is planned for Friday, March 17th from 2—3 pm at the Missoula Veteran’s Cemetery and on Saturday, March 18th, we invite family and friends to celebrate Willy’s life at the Orchard Homes Country Life Club from 2-6 pm.