STARKS – Neil E. Willis, 68, a lifelong resident of Starks, passed away Dec. 29, 2021. He was born Aug. 27, 1953, in Skowhegan, the son of Paul and Iva (Farrand) Willis.He graduated from Madison High School, then earned an associate degree from Eastern Maine Vocational Technical Institute in Bangor. On Aug. 12, 1972, he married Susan Preble at the Presbyterian Church in Starks. Neil was an avid fisherman. He enjoyed spending time imparting his “wisdom and sarcasm” to anyone who would listen and argue with him – although he was always right.He helped found Old England Electronics with his friend, Jon Broome, and later went on to work with his longtime friend, Irene Fenlason, at Kennebec Auto Parts where he was fondly known to many as “NAPA Neil”.Neil is survived by his wife of 49 years, Susan (Preble) Willis of Starks; children, Heather Pease and husband Michael of Industry, Hope Willis and partner Philip Predham of New Vineyard; grandchildren, Iva Willis of New Vineyard, Shadrach Higgins of Starks, Kaitlin Higgins of Industry; great-grandchild, Piper Predham of New Vineyard; siblings, Cheryl Patten of Smithfield, Marilyn Oliver and husband Ervin of Georgia; niece, Lisa Oliver of Texas; nephew, Darin Oliver of Georgia, and numerous other nieces, nephews, and step-grandchildren. Neil had many friends he counted as extended family including Norman DeRoche, Irene Fenlason, Wayne Morris, Randy Bubar, Bill Pressey, Butch Nichols, and John Haley. He was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Iva Willis; brothers-in-law, Terry Preble and Bruce Patten; sister-in-law, Tammy Moody; father-in-law, Derwood Preble; and his cousin, Kerry Hebert.A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service. In lieu of flowers, friends who wish may make donations in Neil’s memory to the Town of Starks Fire Department. Checks should be made payable to SEEdS, 57 Anson Road, Starks, Maine 04911 with “FD”as a memo.

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