Willard F. Heppe of the Town of Polk, passed away with dignity on Friday August 23, 2013 at the age of 89 years.

Willard was born on November 19, 1923 at the family homestead in the Town of Polk to Peter and Rosalia (nee Ziegelbauer) Heppe. He attended St. Peter Grade School and Slinger High School graduating in the class of 1941. Willard married Marianne Cook on February 19, 1949 at Mother of Good Council Catholic Church in Milwaukee. He farmed his entire life in the Town of Polk. Willard was also active in Real Estate. He held the office of Town Supervisor for 6 years. He then moved into the Town Chairman position for another 34 years. He enjoyed his involvement in the town and took much pride in his ability to make the Town of Polk a great place to live. He also served as a member of the Washington County Board for 17 years. He retired from all town activities at the age of 85.

Playing the accordion was a special talent of Willard's. He took lessons as a teenager and played at many local establishments during his younger days, which is how he met Marianne. It was rumored that she had knocked over his music stand. This began a courtship, leading to a marriage of 64 years. Willard was also a proud member of The Milwaukee Accordion Club. In addition to his love for music, he loved his catholic faith and was a lifetime member of St. Peter Catholic Church in Slinger.

Willard leaves behind his 3 children; the Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Heppe, Rosanne (Dennis) Sang, Nora (Robert) Westerman, grandchildren; Stefanie (Andrew) Holland and Rachel (Jason) Loomans, one great granddaughter Tessa Mae Loomans, and his brother Maurice Heppe. Willard had many friends and associates due to his long term residence and involvement in the Town of Polk and Washington County. He is preceded in death by his wife, Marianne, who passed away in April 2013 and has been greatly missed.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 12:00 pm (noon) at St. Peter Catholic Church (200 E. Washington St. Slinger) on Thursday, August 29 with the Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Heppe, Archbishop Jerome Listecki and other priests officiating. Visitation will be at the CHURCH ONLY on Thursday, August 29 from 9:30am until time of mass. Interment will be at St. Peter Catholic Cemetery. Memorials to St. Peter Catholic Church are appreciated.