David Jon Willey, 66, Staples

June 19, 1948 - October 5, 2014

David Jon Willey, 66, of Staples, MN died Sunday, October 5, 2014 at St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud, MN. Committal service for David will be held 2:00PM Thursday, October 9, 2014 at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery near Little Falls, MN.

David was born June 19, 1948 in Minneapolis, MN to Virgil and Dorothy (Fein) Willey. He graduated from Patrick Henry High School and attended St. Cloud State University. David enlisted in the Army and served in Vietnam and Germany. After he was discharged, he attended the University of Minnesota and received his social work bachelor’s degree. David married Cheryl Turnacliff on August 4, 1973 in Minneapolis and lived there until their retirement, when they moved to Staples. He was a teacher and a dispatcher for the Soo Line Railroad. David enjoyed movies, WWII history, Titanic history, motorcycles, cars, fishing, and music. David loved being a grandpa. He liked to travel when he was younger. David especially loved his dogs.

David is survived by his wife, Cheryl; children, Jason (Deb Braucks) of Rosemount, Sean (Susie) of Plymouth, Heather (Shaun) Craig of Pueblo, CO; siblings, Steven, Kenny, Ricky, and Karen; five grandchildren, Eliza, Layla, Keira, Ashlyn, and Clayton. He was preceded in death by his parents and youngest brother, Tommy. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel in Staples, MN.