Willis E. ‘Beaner’ Boshears

On August 7, 1954, Willis and Jane Cunningham were married in Ayr, Scotland. Following a 6 year enlistment in the U.S. Air Force, Willis and his family settled permanently in Michigamme, MI.

Beaner enjoyed many hobbies including baseball, basketball, bowling, riding his motorcycle, playing guitar, playing pool, playing the slots, spending time at his camp in the woods, spending time with friends and gardening. In addition, he was a long time member of the Michigamme-Spurr Fire Department

He was an avid Detroit Lions fan, and his favorite gifts to give and receive were those that endorsed his favorite team. He considered it an unfair punishment to his grandchildren when their parents dressed them in Green Bay Packer colors.

Beaner was known for his quick wit, sense of humor and pleasant personality. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who was in need of assistance. His mind was sharp and he could have lengthy conversations of a variety of subjects. He could type 88 words per minute, which is rather astounding, and he could sew like a pro. He was not, however, what one would call a good cook. Back in the day, he liked his steak rare. Over time, he liked his steak cooked well done. When we asked him why he liked it cooked well done, he replied, “Because your mother says I like it that way.” We laughed. Mother did not.

He is survived by four children; Rona (Bob) Cardew of Champion, Rhonda Boshears of Champion, George (the late Holly) Boshears of Michigamme, Charles (Vicki) Boshears of Republic, brother James (Adonna) Stahl of Round Mountain, Nevada, sister Debra of Gwinn, and 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild, numerous nieces and nephews and cousins in the U.S as well as in Scotland.

Willis was preceded in death by his parents Willis and Lila, his wife of 49 years, Jean (Scotty) Boshears, his brother Ricki Stahl, brother-in-law, Bruce Hanninen, his son-in-law Albert Skytta, and daughter-in-law, Holly Boshears.

Honoring Beaners wishes, there will not be a public service.

A private interment will be held in the spring at the Michigamme Lakeview Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the Michigamme-Spurr First Responders, the Ishpeming Ambulance Service and the Michigan State Police for their assistance; we are very appreciative for their professionalism and compassion during this difficult time. The family would also like to extend their thanks to Nancy Ferro, who was a wonderful neighbor and a great friend to Willis.

In lieu of flowers, memorials should be sent to the Michigamme-Spurr Fire Department and EMS.