Michael Willis

Michael “Sarge” Willis passed away peacefully in his sleep at the VA Hospital in Fargo on September 3, 2025.

Sarge was born on August 17, 1959. He joined the Army in 1978 and served as a combat engineer and mess hall cook. Sarge earned recognition for being an M-16 Sharpshooter. After serving 3 years he entered civilian life and pursued a career with the Savannah Georgia Police Department. Eventually, life took Sarge to Fargo, ND where he was a short order cook in various establishments in the community.

There are no known next of kin, however, he was always surrounded by his chosen family. That being said, he is survived by his son Jeromy and grandson Blaze, and family members Jan, Melanie, Samantha, Jeff, Heather, Jesse, Bobbi Jo, Akash (Bubba), Nimi, and Darwin as well as many others.

Here’s a poem about an old soldier:

This old soldier, gruff and worn with time,
Concealed a heart that was full of love and pride.
He grumbled and complained, a rough exterior hide.
Fed everybody and anyone who’d dine
With a warm meal and a gentle sign.
Though his gruff demeanor might make you think twice
He’d share his last slice of bread, and his heart’s nice.

He’d listen and offer what little he’d spare
A kind soul in a rugged air.
His selflessness shone like a beacon bright
A true hero, in the quiet of night.

This old soldier, with a heart of gold
Touched lives, though his stories may grow old.
His kindness and generosity, a legacy remains
A testament to the love that still sustains.

We will all miss his cantankerous sense of humor, and his big giving heart. Service date to be determined.