Willis Leo Brown

Willis “Bill” Leo Brown, 88, passed away suddenly on December 5, 2025. Born April 20, 1937, in Omaha, Nebraska, later in life, Bill made his home in Des Moines, Iowa, where he built amazing friendships and countless memories.

A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Bill carried his sense of duty and discipline throughout his life. After his military service, he worked for Kellogg’s for 25 years, skillfully operating machinery in the warehouse.

Bill was a family man through and through. He cherished gatherings—large or small—and delighted in watching his family grow through the generations.

He is survived by his daughter, Shelley (Andrew Goerlitz) Draur; his sons, David Brown and Tom Lucid, as well as his brother, John Brown. He also leaves behind five grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him tremendous joy.

Bill was preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara Brown; his second wife, Kay Blevins-Brown; his parents Henry Brown and Dorothy (Mitera) Bevins; his sister, Marion Brown as well as his brothers Jim and George Brown.

A visitation will be held at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory (8201 Hickman Rd. Urbandale IA, 50322) on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m., with a time of sharing tribute service to follow until 7:00 p.m.

In Omaha, visitation will take place Thursday, December 11th, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow on Friday, December 12th, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Westlawn-Hillcrest Cemetery, (5701 Center St., Omaha NE, 68016) A luncheon will follow at a location to be determined.

Bill lived a life worth celebrating, and his legacy of love, service, and strength will continue to shine brightly through all who knew him.