Willard H. Reck

Willard Herbert Reck, age 95, entered his eternal rest on April 23, 2025. A man of deep character, enduring faith, and quiet strength, Will lived a life rich with purpose, service, and music.

Born May 2, 1929, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Will was the second of Paul and Esther (Ranke) Reck’s three children. Will began playing the trumpet in grade school. He rose to first chair in both the Pulaski High School band and Milwaukee’s All-City Orchestra.

After graduating in 1947, Will studied accounting at the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee Extension. He later served honorably in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, using his skills as an accountant while stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska. His work ethic, discipline, and integrity carried him through a fulfilling career in accounting until his retirement.

Following his military service, Will returned to Milwaukee and to his home church, Ascension Lutheran. There, he rejoined the Senior Choir and met the love of his life — Janis Dietrich — whose brother, Ray, was the choir director. They began a beautiful courtship and were married in September 1954. Together, they raised two children, Jennifer and Tom.

In 1958, Will and his brother Donald — who preceded him in death — both became Master Masons. After retiring, Will became deeply involved in the Zor Shrine Temple in Madison, joyfully serving in parades, fundraising events, and the beloved Shriner Circus. He was especially honored to serve as Treasurer beginning in 1999, proudly wearing his special “Treasurer” fez and even updating his license plates to read "ZorTreas."

His commitment to serving others extended through his work with the Golden K Kiwanis Club in Janesville, where he held positions as local and regional President, and later Treasurer for several years. His dedication was recognized through the prestigious George Hixon Fellowship and Heritage Society Award.

Will was a faithful choir member in every church he attended — Milwaukee, Clinton (Iowa), and Waukesha — offering his deep bass voice in worship and fellowship. He was also an avid reader, with a library card that saw frequent use and a book on the table at all times.

Will is survived by his cherished wife of over 70 years, Janis; his sister, Marilyn Zimmermann; his children, Jennifer (Brian) Hurley and Thomas (Kari Opichka) Reck; his grandchildren, Jonathan Hurley and Nicole (Ryan) Abendroth; and great-grandchildren, Caleb, Ben, and Lily Abendroth.

He is also lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and friends who were touched by his steady kindness and gentle wisdom.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to Shriners Children’s Chicago, First Lutheran Church of Janesville or the Golden “K” Kiwanis Club of Janesville.

A memorial service will be held at FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH, 612 N. Randall Ave. Janesville at 11:30 a.m. Friday. May 2, 2025. Pastor Michael Mueller will officiate. Visitation will be at the Church from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. May 2nd. Military rites will follow the services at the church. The Reck family is being assisted by HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY. Online condolences may be sent to www.henkeclarson.com.