Allegan, MI, passed away Friday, May 29, 2009 at the Holland Hospice House at the age of 88. Mr. Willyard was born May 13, 1921 in Grand Rapids, the son of Earl R. and Henrietta (Camp) Willyard. He attended Ottawa Hills High School in Grand Rapids and Coyne Electrical School in Chicago. Ken was a WWII Navy Veteran, making two trips around the world. He was a retiree of the Chessie System (CSX) Railroad with 31 years of service. During his railroad career, he ascended to the position of Regional Manager of Communications and Signals, responsible for operations in the State of Michigan. Upon retirement in 1982, Ken and Maryon moved from their house in Wyoming, MI to their retirement home on Lake Allegan. An accomplished mandolin player, Ken played in several music groups around West Michigan. He greatly enjoyed spreading the gift of music in nursing homes and schools. A 32nd Degree Mason, Ken was also a member of the Saladin Shrine Temple, the American Legion, and the OMFA (Original Michigan Fiddlers Association.) He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Maryon (Metcalfe) Willyard, along with two sons, Terrence (Nancy) and Dennis (Sue); three grandchildren, Angela (Aaron) Shepherd, and Elizabeth and Valerie Willyard; two great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Silas Shepherd; a sister, Doris Edwards; brother, Keith (Marilyn) Willyard; sister-in-law, Jeanine Willyard. Besides his parents, Ken was preceded in death by his sister, Lorraine Krause, and brother, Victor Willyard. Friends may meet with the family from 4-7 p.m. Sunday at the Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, where a Masonic service will be conducted by the Holland Masonic Lodge Unity 191 at 7 p.m. and where funeral services will be held Monday at 11 a.m with Pastor Barry Lucas officiating. Interment Hudson Corners Cemetery, Allegan Twp. Ken's family would like to thank the caring staff of Holland Hospice House, Metro Health Hospital, Oakcrest Assisted Living, Allegan County Medical Care Facility and Allegan General Hospital for the compassionate assistance provided to him over the last 1A½ years. Donations are suggested to Shriners Children's Hospital, Holland Hospice House, or the Allegan County Medical Care Facility.