Willard L. Bodkins, 80, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away Thursday morning, April 2, 2009 at William Newton Hospital.

Born October 8, 1928 in Perry, Oklahoma he was the son of Duel E. and Pearl (Passow) Bodkins. He was raised and received his education in Perry.

Willard was united in marriage to Doris M. Swafford on November 2, 1953, in Newkirk, Oklahoma. The couple made their home and raised their family in the Winfield area. Willard worked most of his life in automotive sales, and owned and ran Bodkins Motors from 1975 to 1986. In 1986 he started and ran Bodkins Manufactured Homes, and continued until he retired in 2008.

He was a faithful member of First Church of the Nazarene in Winfield. He enjoyed watching NASCAR races, Kansas City Chiefs football, Kansas City Royals baseball, softball games and generally any kind of sporting event. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

His family includes:
His wife: Doris of the home;
His son: Wayne Bodkins and wife, Kathy of Winfield;
His daughter: Sherry Lynn Bodkins of Winfield;
His sisters: Gladys Jackson and husband Weldon of Florida; Ida Belle Darnell of Wellington;
His brother-in-law: Ron Hamlin;
His grandchildren: Stephanie, Kevin and Emily Bodkins, Holli Freeland and husband, Jon, and Staci Dennett;
His great-grandchild: Chaiilynn Trinity Freeland and a great grandchild on the way, Jossalee Amaya Freeland;
His dear friend: Charlie Dennett; and
A host of nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Willard was preceded in death by a brother, Wayne Ellis Bodkins, and a sister, Bernice Hamlin.

Funeral services will be held Monday, April 6, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. at the First Church of the Nazarene in Winfield. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery. Friends may call at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield, on Sunday, April 5, 2009 from 2 to 6 P.M. The family will greet visitors from 2 to 4 P.M..

A Memorial has been established in Willard's name for the First Church of the Nazarene. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.