Kaloutie Vevang
We would like to extend our condolences to the Willis family during this difficult time.
Marty was a simple man. The Bible says "It is more bless to give than to receive. " Marty found the true joy of giving. For a man who started his life over many times, he was always charitable with giving his time and services to help others. He served as an avid listener to coworkers, friends, and family.
During his hospital stay, many family members and nurses often heard him say "I am sorry" when he was not able to do something or to help those around him. I got thinking for man who did not finish high school, he had a greater "emotional intelligence” and higher level of thinking than anyone I know. You see Marty used what is called an "empty apology," in a positive way. Marty used empty apologies to let himself take a step back, by saying "I am sorry" giving the other person the autonomy to lead the conversation. This is a precious gift in society that only few people in the world attain.
I had the opportunity to spend a night with Marty in the hospital for which I was honored and grateful to his family and for the lessons I witnessed. I saw a man who did not have the energy to pick up a cup of water to take a drink, a man who was in pain, and yet took time to say "thank you darling" over and over to everyone he came in contact. He was a grateful man.
He talked about spending time with Mike and Suzie in NC. He said they "spoiled me rotten but I loved it" with a smile. He was blessed to have you all. He loved listening to Andrew play the piano and Katy tea times. Suzie, he called his daughter. “I am so proud of Madison going beauty school and working,” he said. His face lit up when he talked to Stevie, Connie, and Billy, “they would always take me where I need to go”. He would talk about Stephanie and Hailey "I love you, and I am happy for you." He spoke of his family like there is no tomorrow.
Personally, I would like to say how grateful I am for Marty being a “Dad figure” to Arnold after his Dad passed many years ago. There are many untold stories of many lives he touched.
The legacy left behind by Marty was that of a humble man, doing things the right way, the way it supposed to be done, listening, and communicating, being thankful, grateful, doing things on his terms. His words- I love you all from Marty. He himself did not know the greatness of all the lives he impacted, we can honor him with lessons learned and implement in our daily lives.
His love for riding his motorcycle on the open roads, the freedom to enjoy nature and peace. It was so beautiful to see all the photos and cherished moments with his family, and those with his motorcycle with him riding, then standing then waving goodbye was perfect- as he probably would do himself.
Let’s stand tall, arms raised high and wave as he rides the highway to heaven. Farewell until we meet again. Love and peace to all, children, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, family, friends, and coworkers.
