Colin Mackay Wills, 94
Colin Mackay Wills, 94, died Friday, May 13, 2005, at Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.
Colin was born at Dumbartonshire, Scotland, March 22, 1911. As a small boy he came to Canada with his parents, Charles and Anna (Dalgleish) Wills. The family later settled in Butte where Colin attended school.
As a young man Colin traveled extensively across the United States and, for a time, managed the Dutch Tavern, a restaurant owned by his parents.
On July 16, 1936, Colin married Winifred Hartwell and for the next 68 years they were devoted partners. They made their home in Kalispell where Colin was employed at Kalispell Commercial before becoming managing partner of Kelly Furniture. After 27 years in the furniture business Colin retired in 1964.
After retirement Colin "dabbled" in real estate when he and Win weren't traveling.They spent winters in Arizona, Florida and Mexico. They visited the U.K., especially enjoying a visit to Colin's birthplace in Scotland. A trip around the world by ship was a highlight in their lives.
Colin was very civic minded and belonged to many organizations. He was a tireless volunteer and often held office. He was president of the Taxpayer's Association and a regular attendee of the county budget meetings, a member of the city council, a SCORE representative, and served on the advisory board of the Salvation Army, receiving a lifetime award for his efforts.
When Buffalo Hill Golf Course expanded to 27 holes, Colin donated most of a summer's labor helping Ted Borgen shape fairways and greens.
Colin is survived by his wife, Winifred, daughter, Colleen and Steven Breeze, and son, Robert and Nina Wills, all of Kalispell. There are five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Colin was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and his eldest daughter, Barbara Wills Meyers.
At his request Colin will be cremated and no public services will be held.
Donations may be made to either Alzheimer's or glaucoma research.
Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.