Theodore “Ted” Frederick Willard was born on July 30, 1957 in Fort Scott, Kansas to Bertha M. and Paul F. Willard. He graduated from Fort Scott High School and attended North Central Kansas Technical College in Beloit, Kansas.

Ted married the love of his life Cheryl Kay Wilson, who preceded him in death.

Ted was a tower crane operator for 35 years and a member of the Teamsters Union. He helped build most of the skyscraper buildings in downtown Kansas City, Missouri during this period.

His brother, Leo Charles Willard and sister, Carol Sue Hall also preceded him in death.

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Capri Kay Willard (Rebekah); mother-in-law, Deloris Neumayer; sister, Gayle Lewis; bonus sister, Janice Anderson (Paul); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Also, his caregivers, Dana Hill and Deb Lebreque who did a wonderful job caring for him the last few years.

Ted loved monster trucks and car rallies but his favorite hobby was roller skating with Capri on the weekends.

The family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice for their services.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am – 10:00 am, Saturday, February 24, at Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home, 500 S. Ohio St., Salina, Kansas. Funeral Services will follow at 10:00 am, at the funeral home.

Ted will be buried at Gypsum Hill Cemetery, Salina.

Donations may be made to People in Need Payee Program or the American Cancer Society, in care of the funeral home.

To send an online condolence, visit www.carlsonfh.net or on Facebook.