Wilton “Willie” Padgett, 86, of North Platte, passed away July 16, 2021 at Linden Court. He was born on March 9, 1935 to Henry and Juanita (Starling) Padgett in Chiefland, Florida.
Willie graduated from Westminster High School in Denver with the class of 1953. He entered the United States Marines on December 29, 1953 and served stateside. After his discharge in 1956, Willie went back to Denver. He married Vauni Powell and to this union three children were born, Frederick, Darrin, and Lynette Padgett.
On March 2, 1979 Willie married Margaret (Greivel) Parker at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Julesburg, Colorado. The couple lived in Ogallala and Willie worked as meat market manager at Safeway in Ogallala. He worked at Hatch’s Super Food in Grant and retired in 2016. They moved to North Platte in 2017.
Willie liked to golf and was passionate about his yard and animals, especially his dogs. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He enjoyed motorcycles and waved and talked to everyone, never knowing a stranger.
Survivors include wife Margaret of North Platte; children, Darrin A. (Tammy) Padgett of Ogallala, Lynette Fowler of Ogallala, James J. (Maryann) Parker IV of North Platte, William “Eric” (Colleen) Parker of Casper, Wyoming; eight grandchildren, Andrew Scott, Nathan Padgett, Morgan (Eric) Enyeart, Haley (Brad) Adkisson, Jacob Parker, Emily (Kris) Boardman, Cherie O’Bryant, Austin Padgett; fifteen great grandchildren; one great great grandchild; sister-in-law, Joan Padgett of Denver; several nephews; dog and best friend, Beau.
He was preceded in death by wife Vauni, his parents, Henry and Juanita; step-father, Horace “Pete” Phillips; son, Frederick “Ricky”; brother, Norman; sisters, Dorothy “Dot” and Lenore.
The family would like to extend their gratitude for the excellent care by the Linden Court Staff. Also, for the loving care of Willie by Dr. Eduardo Freitas.
Memorials are suggested in his memory to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.
Christian Wake Services will be held at 10:00 A.M. and Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A.M., Thursday, July 22, 2021 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with Reverend Josh Brown, Reverend Bryan Ernest and Deacon Eric Parker officiating. Inurnment will follow at Fort McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell. Those wishing to sign the book may do so noon-5:00 P.M., Wednesday July 21, 2021 at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.