John Willi's Obituary
John Willi, age 92, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, April 7, 2026. John was born February 10, 1934, in a part of Europe that was at that time known as Yugoslavia. During World War 2, his family fled to Austria. A number of years later, he immigrated to the United States and settled in Cleveland, which was where he met his future wife, Kathrin. John and Kathrin married in 1958 and were able to celebrate their 65’th wedding anniversary just before Kathrin’s passing in 2023. John was raised on a farm in his early years, and after coming to the United States he worked in various positions in manufacturing for the remainder of his career. When not working, he took an interest in gardening and over the years became very skilled at it. During the summer months, the variety of exotic and brightly colored flowers in his patio and backyard were something to behold.
As much as he liked flowers and gardening, John’s greatest love in life was his family. He is survived by his children Richard (Gretchen) Willi, John M, (Peggy) Willi, and his grandchildren Samantha Willi (Matt Clever), Mike (Alyssa) Willi, John P. Willi and Kaitlin Willi.
John was preceded in death by his loving wife Kathrin, his parents Nicholas and Apolonia Willi, his sister Julianna (Willi) Dick, and his brother Mathias Willi. He will be missed.
Visitation is Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 12-2:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Chapel, 6245 Columbia Road, North Olmsted, OH 44070, where the service will follow at 2:00 PM.
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