Willis Romjue

Willis C. Romjue, 101, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2023, in Westfield Indiana.  Willis was born in Red Cloud, Nebraska on November 3, 1922, and was a loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather.  He valued and loved his family, especially his grandchildren, and was happiest when he was spending time with them.

Willis moved to Priest River, Idaho with his family when his father became ill and graduated from Priest River High School.  While his father was ill, he took care of the farm so his mother could take care of his father.  When his father passed away, he sold the farm to pay for the medical expenses and enlisted in the Navy during World War II.  After the war, he attended the University of Illinois where he met the love of his life, Joan, and they were married on February 5, 1950.  He transferred to the University of Nebraska when he received an offer from Norton Laboratories and received his bachelor’s degree in business from there. 

They wanted to move back to the Midwest, and he came to interview for a position in Indianapolis.  While riding the bus, he asked the bus driver about good places to work, and the bus driver recommended Elil Lilly.  As a result, he went to Eli Lilly the next day, interviewed, and had a job offer that day.  That started a long career at Eli Lilly for over 35 years as an accountant before retiring in 1988 and enjoying his hobbies. 

He enjoyed spending time with his family, boating, reading, playing bridge, and spending time outside in his yard.  He enjoyed being with people and interacting with them and really enjoyed a good joke which was clear as he laughed full-heartedly.  Willis lived a full life characterized by a deep love for his wife, Joan, and his family.  Willis and Joan were married for 65 years and she passed away in 2015. 

Willis faced many challenges along the way, and he credited God for guiding him during critical points in his life.  With his Christian faith as a foundation, he lived his life with confidence and a positive outlook.

He was a member of the Southport Presbyterian Church where he served as a deacon and elder for many years and sang in the choir.

Willis is survived by his two children, Jerry Romjue of Lafayette and Deborah (husband, Stephen, deceased) Romjue-Bailey, of Carmel; grandsons, Kevin Bailey and Jason Bailey.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Joan Romjue.

We would like to share our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Copper Trace, especially Shelley and Wendy, for their loving care of Willis over all these years. 

There will be a service at the Our Lady of Peace Cemetery chapel, Indianapolis, at 3:00pm on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 and burial will follow.

In memory of Willis, donations can be sent to the Southport Presbyterian Church.