Willard Lester Germany was born August 22, 1927 in Kansas City, Kansas. He was the fifth of seven children born to Sallie and Reece Germany.
Willard became a Christian at an early age while attending King Solomon Baptist Church. He was the product of the Kansas City, Kansas School district and graduated from Sumner High School.
Willard was always known for his strong work ethic. He began his working career while in middle school when he sold The Call newspaper at the city bus stop and during the summers worked at the farmers market. After high school he worked for a construction company as a bricklayer.
Willard enlisted in the US Army and served as an infantry soldier during the Korean conflict. After being discharged he worked for the railroad as an “Iceman” resupplying refrigerated rail cars while also attending Kansas City Kansas Community College. Several years later his younger brother Ed convinced him to move to Los Angeles with him.
Willard lived in the Los Angeles area for over 30 years and was employed by the company that maintained the Los Angeles Forum and Colosseum. Upon retiring Willard returned to Kansas City. However, he didn’t sit still for long, he worked various part-time jobs including one at Argosy Casino. He finally retired before his 80th birthday.
Willard had one son Wayne Eugene Germany who preceded him in death. Willard was also preceded in death by his six siblings Lorraine Mosley, Mayetta (Maye) Neal, Nathaniel (Sonny) Germany, Joseph (Joe) Germany, Reece (Jr) Germany and Educate (Ed) Germany.
Willard leaves to cherish his memory a whole host of family members including nieces Ardis (Cookie), Cheryl, Yvonne, Diane, Connie, Janice, Gail, Joyce, Linda (Penny), Retta, Belinda, and Angel; nephews Maurice, Melvin, Mark, Nathaniel, Evan and Jeffrey; his special cousin Carlos; and longtime special friend Gloria Small.
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