Published on October 27, 2026 11:01 am
Last Updated on October 27, 2026 1:41 pm
Zack Eugene Willson, 94, of Arcola, IL passed away at 6:52 am on Sunday October 25, 2026, at Carriage Crossing Assisted Living in Arcola.
Per Zack’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. Services will be at a later date with the burial in the Pleasant View Cemetery in Sycamore, Ohio. The Barkley Funeral Chapel in Greenup is assisting the family.
Zack was born on February 26, 1932, in Sycamore, Ohio to Mister and Cleo (Ennis) Willson. He married Marcia Jean Patridge on December 19, 1953. They were married almost 60 years when she passed on December 16, 2013. Survivors include son Steve (Lee) Willson, daughters Sharon (Al) Gross and Karen (Doug) Eddy; grandchildren: Bryce, Kelsey, Tonya (Jonas), Travis (Erica), Renee (Trevor), Heather (Jeremy), and Alex (Tyler) and four great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Marica, and sister Jean Willson.
Zack attended North High School in Columbus, Ohio, where he excelled as a multi-sport athlete. He played quarterback in football, competed in basketball, track, and golf. He later continued his golf career at The Ohio State University. Zack was a fierce competitor on the golf course, with a low handicap and 3 holes-in-one to his credit. Zack, a longtime member of the American Casting Association (ACA), was an accomplished tournament caster, setting records in both national and international arenas. He was named to its All-American team 38 times. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956. Zack had a very successful career in sales and was a member of Capital City Masonic Lodge No. 656, A.F. & A.M., in Columbus.
The family would like to express our sincere thanks to the wonderful staff and caregivers at Carriage Crossing Arcola for the loving care Dad was given during his stay there. Thank you, also, to Transitions Hospice for their compassionate care and support in his final days.
Memorials can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association: 225 N Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601
Online condolences can be expressed at www.barkleyfuneralchapels.com