Philip L. Willey

CARIBOU - Philip L. Willey died Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at the age of 86.  His long and full life was marked with many great moments and significant achievements.  He was born in Caribou, May 21, 1933 the son of Loomis Sr. and Doris (Wark) Willey. He married the love of his life, Vivian (Chasse) Willey and together they shared many proud moments.  First and foremost, Mr. Willey was a builder.  He built a wonderful marriage, a family and several successful businesses.  He loved his community and although his work as a developer took him throughout the state, projects in Caribou were his favorite.  He created P.L. Willey Co. which included a hardware store as well as a construction company.  Through both, he brought Elderly, Family and other housing to his hometown.  He built banks, schools and houses and more adding up to an impressive legacy.  He believed in Caribou and it’s future.  Building community for him meant serving on the Utilities Board, Caribou Development Board, the Lion’s Club, City Council and as a founding Board member of First Citizen’s Bank.  For several of these organizations, he took a leadership role. He is survived by the family he built, his four children and their spouses, Ron and Lou Willey, Barrett and Bonnie Willey, Rick and Lisa Willey and Dr. Vicky Willey, his grand children, Jared, Rebekkah, Amy, Sarah, Rachael, Ben, Ethan, Phil, Eli, Elisha, Jeremiah and Grace, his thirteen great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.  He is also survived by his brother and wife Loomis and Mary Willey.  He was predeceased by his parents, wife of 59 years and son-in-law Paul Kemberling. He will be remembered for a lifetime of building and creating.  His favorite admonition was “Don’t embarrass the family”.  And he loved his family.  He will also be remembered for the hospitality he and Vivian offered to all including parties still unmatched.  He was a teaser and jokester who brought smiles and laughter to every gathering.  He was also a man of faith with a strong moral and ethical foundation. The family wishes to extend a sincere thank-you to Caribou Rehabilitation and Nursing Center and to Dr. Carl Flynn for the fine care that Philip received. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated 11AM, Saturday, November 23, 2019 at Parish of the Precious Blood Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Spring interment will be in the New Holy Rosary Cemetery. Those who wish to contribute in memory of Mr. Willey may do so through the Willey Heritage Scholarship Fund c/o Caribou High School, 308 Sweden Street, Caribou, ME 04736.