Steven Lynn Willis, 'Dad' 'Papa' 'Pop' of Derry, NH, passed away unexpectedly at his home, on November 12, 2024.

Steve was born in Dayton, Ohio, the son of the late Marilyn (Bowser) and Robert Willis. He was educated in the Englewood school system and graduated from Northmont High School. After graduation, Steve chose to enlist rather than wait for his draft number to come up. He went on to serve in the United States Army, in the 82nd Airborne Division. He received numerous commendations: bronze star, air medal, army commendation medal, Vietnam campaign medal, Vietnam service medal, National defense medal.

Following his honorable discharge, Steve went on to study chemical engineering/sales and marketing. He was employed by Chemineer/Kenics for 40 years as a Global Application Development Engineer and Manager. In the words of one of his colleagues, "Application Development was what he loved and excelled at. His ability to design and develop was essential to our company". While on a business trip to New England, he met "the girl he was going to marry". Steve married the love of his life, Brenda. They celebrated their 45th anniversary this year.

Steve was a member of VFW Post 1617 and American Legion Post 273. He was a member of the National Sporting Clays Association, Westford Sportsman's Club, the 173rd Airbourne Brigade Association and Plastics Engineers of America He was a skilled sporting clays and trap shooter, winning many championships through the years. Always a thrill seeker, Steve was a car enthusiast, especially race cars. He really enjoyed racing at Mid-Ohio racetrack and Watkins Glen. He was thrilled to be in the pits with Paul Newman at Limerock in 1982. He loved roller coasters, the bigger and faster the better. He found great pride encouraging and watching his oldest 2 grandchildren riding the "big" rides at Storyland and race cars at Mel's Funway!

Steve was a loyal fan of the Red Sox, rarely missing a game. His favorite all time player was Dustin Pedroia. He was also a Patriots, a Cincinnati Bengals and an Ohio State fan. He coached basketball, soccer and Tball teams for the Derry Recreation Program. He also coached for Derry Little and the Derry Eagles for many years. The youth sport teams were by far his favorite teams.

Steve had a love for life that was unmatched. He met every health-related challenge and surpassed all expectations. "Nothing is going to stop me, I am not finished playing with my grandkids" was his mantra. He was the ultimate Papa/Pop. His first task after retirement was building a swing set to be ready for them! He attended games, recitals, plays and concerts and was his grandchildren's biggest fan. He found great joy in sneaking chocolate and ice cream to them. He introduced them to rockets, tractors and fast scooters. They loved riding in the Miata with the top down, even when it was 30 degrees outside.

Steve was a man with many interests. He was a history buff, a talented artist and designer. He read 3 or 4 books at the same time! He enjoyed all genres of music from the Rolling Stones to Beethoven to Baby Shark. Steve, also known as "the handsome and talented Mr. Willis", always had a smile and was ready with a joke – he didn't know a stranger.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Brenda; his children, Ryan Willis and his wife Jennifer of Hanover, MA, Ashlee Willis and her husband John Brabant of Derry, NH; and Kasey Lynch of Kansas along with his grandchildren; Joey, Elizabeth, Olivia, and Christopher, Mason, Regan and Reily; brothers, Bill Willis and his wife Lisa and Kent Willis and his wife Tracy and nephew Sean Willis all of Ohio; as well as his brother-in-law, Brian O'Hearne and his wife Ramona of Massachusetts.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, November 21st, from 2-4pm, at the Carrier Family Funeral Home, 38 Range Road, Windham, NH. A Funeral Service will immediately follow, beginning at 4pm, at the Carrier Family Funeral Home. Burial will be held at the NH State Veterans Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Homeland Heroes Foundation, St Jude's Research Hospital, or the Derry School District Food Service Program.

For directions or to leave a message of condolence, please visit www.carrierfuneralhome.com.