Willard Hornbeck

Willard R. (Bill) Hornbeck died peacefully at his home on October 15, 2014 after a long time battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Bill was born on June 7, 1923 in Lafayette,IN to Willard D. and Ruby A. Hornbeck. He lived a wonderful childhood growing up in the theater and entertainment business with his Mom and Dad and uncles. His family moved to Lafayette when he was young and he spent the rest of his life living and working here. He went off to war as part of the greatest generation in 1942. He followed the first wave of soldiers in after D-Day, and was part of the surveying crew laying down coordinates for targets as they marched across Europe. Upon his return home after VE Day, he began work at ALCOA and remained there until his retirement 42 years later. He was a faithful and trusted worker and loved his time at ALCOA, especially the day he met Mary Ruth Buit, the love of his life. Right up to the end, he always said the best day of his life was the day he married Mary Ruth. From that first day they met until the last day on this earth, they were inseparable and the best of friends. Together they raised six children, all of whom were his proudest accomplishments. Bill made sure to provide well for his family as well as for he and Mary Ruth. As a family they made many memories, whether it was taking annual trips to the Indiana State Fair or taking a trip to Florida to watch Apollo 11 blast off for the moon in 1969. One of his favorite things to do in his retirement years was to spend time in Hawaii with Mary Ruth, his family, and friends.
Surviving Bill is his dedicated and loving wife, Mary Ruth, and 5 children, Gary, Naperville, Illinois; Lucinda (Lary) Stieglitz, Medford, OR; Randall, Seattle, WA; Timothy (Lisa), West Lafayette, IN; and Thomas, Eugene, OR. Daniel (LuAnn) predeceased him by one year. Bill and Mary Ruth have 11 grandchildren, and he dearly loved making special memories with each one. They also have 10 great grandchildren. Whenever one of the little ones would come to see Bill his eyes would light up even to the end as he took great joy at being in the presence of his family. He was also predeceased by his beloved brother, Huntley A. Hornbeck. Bill also had many nieces, nephews, and sisters-in-law who survive him and were also dearly loved. Bill lived his life well and will greatly be missed as the patriarch of his family.
Friends may call at St. Mary Cathedral from 10:00 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM Monday, Fr. Jeff Martin officiating. The interment will follow at St. Boniface Cemetery with American Legion Post 11 graveside rites. Hahn-Groeber Funeral & Cremation Services is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be left at www.hahngroeberfuneralhome.com