Willard L. Sodders

SODDERS, Willard L., Sr., 91, World War 2 Navy Veteran, recipient of the Purple Heart award, and a member of "The Greatest Generation", died on Monday, April 3, 2017, following several months of failing health. He was born in Springfield on August 13, 1925, the son of Arthur and Bernice Sodders. He worked at International Harvester for 30 years, retiring in 1976. While at International, he served as a union steward, committeeman, and first vice president of Local Union 402. After retirement, Willard served in the Peace Corp and later operated Sodders Pro Painter house painting service. Willard was a member of the World War 2 Tin Can Sailors, a life-time member of VFW Post 1031, Amvets Post 25, American Legion Post 6, and Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Surviving are sons George (Christa), Joseph, Jack (Krista) and Michael and one brother, Fred (Rowenia) Sodders; ten grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Mildred, son Willard Jr., daughter-in-law Nancy Sodders, and sisters Mona Snyder, Evelyn Begy and Dolores Gaier. A gathering of family and friends will be held on Tuesday, April 11, 2017 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the CONROY FUNERAL HOME, 1600 E. High St., Springfield, OH. Burial will follow in the Glen Haven Memorial Gardens.