Flake Willis

Flake Willis, age 93, returned to his loving Father in Heaven, his wife, Bernice, and many family members and friends on March 3, 2008, after a brief illness incident to age. He was born Marshall Flake Willis on April 13, 1914, in Snowflake, Arizona, to parents Tillman and Ida Flake Willis and was the second of 12 children. Flake spent a lifetime career in the railroad business as President and General Manager of the Apache Railway in Arizona and the McCloud River Railroad in Northern California. He was instrumental in overseeing extensive growth and improvement of both railroads while under his leadership. After retiring, he began railroad consulting for Kyle Railways, traveling extensively to secure mergers and evaluate projects for purchase. Flake married Bernice June Pearson in the Mesa LDS Temple on September 29, 1939. They were blessed with four children. Flake and Bernice returned to Snowflake in the late 1970's and restored the family pioneer home built by his grandfather, Charles Flake, where they enjoyed their remaining years surrounded by family and friends. They traveled throughout the world during this time. Flake is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and faithfully served in many capacities including many years as Branch President, Bishop, High Councilman, teacher and temple worker in the Snowflake Temple. He is survived by his children; Judy Draper (J), Linda Brazzeal) Joe, Marshall (Letizia) and Carolyn Cooper; 18 Grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by eight brothers and sisters. Funeral services will be held Sat. March 8th at 10:00 A.M. at the Snowflake Main Street Chapel, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with a visitation from 9-9:45 A.M. at the Church and from 6-8:00 P.M. Friday March 7th at Owens Mortuary (84 E. 19th South) in Snowflake. Interment will follow in the Snowflake Cemetery.