Willis E. Fitch

Willis E. Fitch

Willis E. Fitch, 81, of Newton, died Thursday (Jan. 20, 2000) at Friendly Acres Retirement Community.

He was born Dec. 30, 1918, in Mountain Grove, Mo., to Louis Newton and Lina (Hicks) Fitch. He married Ella M. Schroeder Sept. 4, 1938. She preceded him in death Sept. 10, 1976.

He was a member of First Mennonite Church in Newton. He was a mechanic for International Harvester and Rhodes construction in Newton and an inspector for Cessna Aircraft for 17 years. He retiring in 1983.

He served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

He formerly lived at 206 E. Ninth for more than 40 years. He lived at Friendly Acres for 2 1/2 years.

He enjoyed fishing, antiques and collectibles, historic Newton postcards and watches.

Survivors include: one son, Larry Fitch of Everett, Wash.; one daughter, Carolyn Schmidt of Newton; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He also was receded in death by two daughters, Winifred Fitch and Willa Jeanne Fitch.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Monday at Petersen Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Clarence Rempel from First Mennonite Church in Newton officiating. Burial will be in the Greenwood Cemetery.

Friends may call from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 9 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorials have been established with Meadowlark Homestead or Residential Services Program in care of the funeral home.