Willard L. Bontrager

October 1, 1923 - February 26, 2019

Willard L. Bontrager, 95, of Kalkaska, passed away at home on Tuesday, February 26, 2019. He was born on October 1, 1923 in Comins, Michigan to the late Otis and Nora (Miller) Bontrager. Willard was a diligent servant of the Lord who loved to preach and was a content husband and father. After making two trips aboard cattle ships following World War II, Willard came home. In 1948 he married the love of his life, Millie Gascho. Later that same year, Willard started the Coldsprings Mennonite Church in Mancelona where he pastored for 48 years. He also worked full time running his own construction business. Family was extremely important to Willard, and he especially enjoyed family trips and traveling. He also like to read, especially history, play softball and cut wood. Willard is survived by his beloved wife Millie; sons: Lamarr, Brent (Diana), Dwen (Ruth), and Gary (Patti); daughter in law Michelle Boudreault; 15 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and his brother Dr. Warren Bontrager. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Drew Bontrager, siblings Delbert Bontrager, Miriam Gascho, and Anna Strang, daughter-in-law Lois Troyer/Bontrager. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 8:00 pm on Thursday, February 28, 2019 at Coldsprings Christian Fellowship. A funeral service will be held on Friday, March, 1 2019 at 11:00 am with final visitation at 10:00 am. The family would like to thank Sandy and Laurie with Hospice of Michigan for the exceptional care that was given. Arrangements are entrusted to Kalkaska Funeral Home and Cremation Services.