Willard Albert Mears

Willard Albert Mears was born in Yakima, Washington on August 31, 1941. He passed away at home, surrounded by family, on October 24, 2024 in Grandview, Washington. He was the son of Delbert Mears and Olive (Rabie) Mears. His early years were spent in Moxee, Washington before moving to Grandview. He attended Grandview Schools before graduating with the class of 1959. Willard was a veteran of the United States Army where he achieved the rank of sergeant. He deployed with the 737th Transportation Company to Vietnam in 1968 where he hauled aviation fuel for a year. Willard remained proud of his service to the country for the rest of his life. Willard worked for the John Segal Hop Farms, in Grandview, for 50 years. He worked growing hops and then became a ranch manager for many years. Willard enjoyed all things outdoors, hunting, fishing, farming, and the Grandview Fair. Participating in the community was important to Willard. He was on the Yakima Valley Fair and Rodeo Board for 50 years. He was an active board member of the Foundation for the Yakima Valley Fair and Rodeo. He was also a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church Council. Willard is survived by his wife of 48 years, Cathy Mears, sons Christopher (wife, Jennifer) Mears, and Kelly Mears, grandchildren Olivia and Cade Mears and Chereé and Danielle LaPierre, his brothers in law, Neil Combelic (wife, Mai) and Mike Combelic (wife, Martha). Also, several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father Delbert, his mother Olive, and his brother Henry Mears (wife, Linda)

Memorials may be sent to the Foundation for the Yakima Valley Fair and Rodeo, 211 Lindsay Way, Grandview, WA, 98930 or Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 1106 Taylor Ave, Sunnyside, WA 98944.

Viewing  and visitation will be at Smith Funeral Home in Sunnyside, WA. on Friday, November 1, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  Graveside Service  with Military Honors will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the Lower Valley Memorial Gardens in Sunnyside, WA. Memorial Services will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 1106 Taylor St. Sunnysdie, WA followed by a lunch.  Those wishing to sign Willard’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com   Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements

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