Willard A. Gettemy

It is with great sadness that the family of Willard A Gettemy announce his passing. He passed away on September 23, 2024, at 10:24 pm, after a long courageous battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Willard was born on September 11, 1942, in Denver Colorado, where he lived until he was 9 years old when his family moved to Los Alamos, NM. He entered the United States Navy in July of 1960, serving until July of 1963. This time in the Navy introduced him to electrical trade skills, which proved very beneficial as this would be how he made his living the rest of his working life. Upon returning from the Navy, he courted Deborah J. Kerns and they were married on June 24, 1966, at the First Baptist Church in Los Alamos.

Willard was a hard-working man who loved working with his hands. A highly skilled union electrician by trade, he fore manned big construction jobs all over central and northern NM for more than 30 years. He loved the country life as well, owning a small cattle ranch in Northern NM for a time. He loved his cows and horses. During retirement, he picked up the craft of woodworking, restoring and building furniture for just about everyone in his family.

He was known for his quiet, yet humorous demeanor. He had a kind, gentle and generous spirit and would give anyone a quick tease if he could. His smile was infectious and lit up his face.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years Deborah J. Gettemy, and his three children with their families:

Oldest Glen Leroy Gettemy and wife Jessica Gettemy, their sons, Aidan Roy and wife Clara Gettemy, Elias Lee Gettemy,

Daughter, Wendy Irene Martinez and husband Michael Apodaca, her children, Randy James Gettemy Saiz and wife Naomi Saiz, Sara Allianna Martinez, Kay Johnston and Adrian Daniel Martinez and wife Ana Martinez.

Youngest Daniel Willlard Gettemy and wife Karen Gettemy with their daughter Sameyah and husband Wesley Klement with great grandson Azreal Daniel.

He is also survived by his brothers, Donald James Gettemy and wife Gracia and brother Robert John Gettemy.

A graveside service will be held in Guaje Pines Cemetery in Los Alamos NM on November 9, 2024, at 12:00 noon.