April 1, 1977 ~ Dec. 13, 2021
Katy Willis, 44, lost a short battle with cancer on Dec. 13, 2021, in Grand Junction, Colorado surrounded by family. Katy was a resident of Rangely where she had lived since graduating from high school in Carbondale, Colorado.
Katy was born in Rangely on April 1, 1977, to Laura King and Bill Willis. She is preceded in death by grandparents Ruth and JD King of Rangely, uncle Darrell King, cousin Jesse King, cousin Wes Bretey, aunt Patty Limon, and loving step-dad John Martin of Carbondale. She is survived by her parents, Laura King (Stan Chafin) of Texas, and Bill (Brenda) Willis of Rangely; brothers Jon (Erin) Willis of Rangely, Zane (Charlea) Hubbard of Silt, Tim and Kendra Willis of Rangely, step-brother Sean Martin of Carbondale, step-sister Holly Martin of Grand Junction; nieces and nephews Brandon, Bryce and Addie Willis and Tara, Kimber and Kase Hubbard. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins. One of her most significant survivors is her loyal dog, Mickey.
Katy spent the last three-four weeks of her life staying with her aunt Fran (Dan) Piland in Grand Junction where she was cared for by her aunt who never left her side and made sure she knew she was going to beat her cancer. The two were planning a trip to the Grand Canyon when she was well again. Throughout Katy’s diagnosis and care, she stayed positive and upbeat not accepting that she wouldn’t return home to Rangely.
Katy was happiest outdoors and spent time hiking, fishing, and generally loved being at the river. She enjoyed campfires, sunsets, and always had music playing wherever she was. Her favorite song was “Fishing in the Dark.” She loved animals and kids. Her nieces and nephews loved her dearly. Kids belonging to friends of hers were drawn to her because she would always take the time to talk to them, help them, or just hang out.
Katy radiated love and was loved by many. She had many close friends that were loyal to her and received the same back. If you had Katy on your side, you had an unceasing warrior! She would not let you down and would stand up for you long before ever thinking about herself. She was independent, self reliant, and lived her life without the worry of materialistic things. All she needed was her dog, family, friends and the White River. She will be greatly missed but will be remembered as someone who always made others feel special, as the person more likely to be cracking a joke than being serious, and for her infectious smile and laugh.
Memorial services are tentatively scheduled for Jan. 8, 2022 in Rangely.
