John R. Willen, Sr

John R. Willen, Sr., age 74 of Belle, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2013, at St. Mary's Health Center in Jefferson City.

John was born on December 28, 1938, in Bridgeton, Missouri, the son of the late Ben and Sophie (Litteken) Willen.

John was united in marriage on May 18, 1957, in Bridgeton, to Dorothy G. (Kopesky) Willen, who survives at the home.

John was a carpenter and he enjoyed hunting, fishing, shooting and woodworking. His greatest love was spending time with his family.

In addition to his wife, John is survived by his ten children and their spouses: John Willen, Jr., and his wife Dawn of St. Johns, MO, Al Willen and his wife Mary of Bland, MO, Jerry Willen of Steelville, MO, Ron Willen of St. Louis, MO, Cheryl Burns and her husband Joe of Marthasville, MO, Karen Kitrel and her husband Don of St. Peters, MO, Teri Ruf and her husband Keith of Orchard Farm, MO, Brenda Nelson and her husband Jim of Overland, MO, Jane Breneisen and her husband Mike of St. Peters, MO, and Bill Willen and his wife Tiffany of Belle, MO; twenty grandchildren and nine great grandchildren - with two more on the way; three sisters, Theresa Duncan of Warrenton, MO, Margaret Willen of Overland, MO, and Sophie Hankey and her husband Bill of Warrenton, MO.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters.

In accordance with John's wishes, his body has been cremated and no services are planned at this time.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sassmann's Chapel, Belle, MO. (859-3712)
www.sassmannschapel.com