Gordon "Rex" Willnow

ADRIAN--Born in Adrian, Michigan on September 2, 1929 to Donna and Gordon Willnow, who preceded him in death. Rex is survived by his wife Arlene (Callahan), whom he married in 1954, his son Steve “Yogi” (Licia), his daughter Jodi, his grandson Alex—the light of his life, and his half-brother Harlan (Sue) of Jasper, Michigan. Rex graduated from Adrian High School in 1947, from Michigan State University in 1951, and he was discharged from the US Army in 1953, where he served in the Counter Intelligence Corp. After several years selling insurance, he got a Master’s degree in Special Education from Eastern Michigan University. Most of his working years were spent at the Porter Center, then he moved on from there to start a program at VoTech that helped to ensure that all students, including those with special challenges, find their capacity to earn a living and to contribute to the community. While at the Porter Center, he was instrumental in starting the Michigan Special Olympics, which were held in Lenawee County for several years. Rex never let any grass grow under his feet— he was an accomplished marksman with pistols and bow-and-arrow, he played and coached fast-pitch softball, coached little league baseball, he played and taught tennis, he was a devoted runner qualifying for the Boston marathon, played handball and paddleball for many years, took up roller blading and bicycling, and up until about two months before his passing, he was a non-stop golfer (hitting balls and hunting for balls). Rex was a big believer in community involvement. He was past-president of Adrian Kiwanis Club, and he served as a volunteer deputy for the Lenawee County Sheriff Department for many years. Recently, Rex retired after 25 years with the Adrian High School football team as the equipment manager, where he touched the lives of many young men by nurturing, mentoring, and caring for them. Always needing something to keep himself busy, Rex started his own snow-removal business that he built to great personal success. According to Rex’s wishes, he has been cremated and there will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, January 31, 2016 from 2–5pm at the Lenawee Country Club. Rex requested “casual attire” for this celebration. A special thank you goes to Hospice of Lenawee, Cambrian Memory Care in Tecumseh, and to all who helped him and the family in any way. Everyone who knew Rex was affected by his sense of “others.” He had a genuine spirit, a caring and helpful attitude, and a smile for everyone he encountered. Rex will be sorely missed by all. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Hospice of Lenawee or to Adrian Public Schools Athletics—In Memory of Rex Willnow. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Arrangements entrusted to Wagley Funeral Home where online condolences and memories may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHome.com.

Gordon "Rex" Willnow

September 2, 1929 - January 21, 2016