Thomas Paul Willard

July 14, 1946 - October 30, 2017

THOMAS PAUL “Tom” WILLARD, 71, of Emlenton, Pa. passed away at 10:55 PM Monday evening (10-30-17) at his residence following an extended illness. Born in Corinth, NY on July 14, 1946, he was the son of the late Oscar and Margaret Truelove Willard. Tom served during the Vietnam War with the United States Navy with over fourteen years of service.  Honorably discharged with rank of E-5, he earned the Good Conduct Medal for service 1964-68, NDSM, and the Vietnam Service Medal.  Following fourteen years with the Navy, he began a period of service with the U.S. Army - Pa. Nat’l. Guard (reserves) for over twenty years.  He was officially honorably discharged with over thirty-four years of service in 1998. He was an active and life-member of Roy Calvin McGinnis VFW Post 7073 of Parker. Tom was dedicated to participating in as many veteran funeral services and color guard in parades as long as health permitted.  He was also a member of American Legion Post 399 of Ottsville, Pa. He was an automotive mechanic in civilian life, and enjoyed tinkering with building or repairing any item mechanical. Catholic by faith, he was devoted to family and the sport of hunting. Survived by his wife, Pamela Ann Burke Willard whom he married Sept. 27, 1991;  son Thomas M. (Elise) Willard of Upper Black Eddy, Pa.;  daughter: Stephanie (Scott) Kotkoski of Parker; three grandchildren:  Cassie, Kayleigh, and Megan;  mother-in-law: Mary Burke of Phoenixville, Pa.;  sister-in-law:  Laurie Overpeck of Emlenton;  brothers-in-law:  Kevin Burke of Texas and Tim Burke of PA. Friends may call from 3:00 to 4:30 PM Saturday, Nov. 25 at H. Jack Buzard Funeral Home, 201 So. Wayne Ave., Parker.  VFW Post 7073 and American Legion Post 598 will conduct services at 4:45 PM Sat., Nov. 25 at funeral home.  A memorial service will be held at 5:00 PM in funeral home (same date).  Private interment will be family only.