Orval L.E. Willimann

Orval L.E. Willimann died peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends on Friday, June 30, 2023. He was born in St. Louis, MO to Grace and Oliver Willimann. Orval graduated from New Haven High School in 1951, and in 1955 graduated with a degree in History from Elmhurst College, married Alby Ruth Baur and attended seminary at Eden Theological Seminary from 1955-1959. Following his ordination he was dually appointed to St. John UCC and Ebenezer Stone Church in Gerald, MO. In 1963 he and Ruth moved their young family to Higginsville, MO where he pastored Salem UCC until 1974. From 1974-1998, Orval served as senior pastor at Bethlehem UCC, in Ann Arbor, MI. He retired from full time ministry in 1998 to Round Lake, Manitou Beach MI. In 1990 he earned a Doctorate of Divinity from Drew University in Madison NJ. He continued to serve parishes as interim or guest pastor in West Adrian and Saline even after retirement. In 2015 He and Ruth moved into the independent living community at Brecon Village in Saline. Influenced by his mentor, Rev. Roy Albersworth of Berger, MO, Orval felt an intense and undeniable calling into the ministry from an early age. Orval’s charismatic nature, profound understanding of fellow humans, and uplifting spirit touched the lives of thousands through marriage, prayer, baptism, funerals, spiritual guidance, and friendship over his years in the ministry. He is survived by Alby Ruth (Baur) Willimann, the love of his life and wife of 67 years. Sister Bonnie Rau (Bob), brother Harold Bruening (Ann); Daughter, Kathleen Rice (John), Zachary (Erika), Hannah, Jonathan (Amber), Mary Grace (Austin); Son, James Willimann (Laurie), Kira Levy (Aaron), Kristof, Katie, Karly; Daughter, Kristine Willimann (Roger); Daughter, Jennifer Peters (Wayne), Erin Peters (Tyler); Craig (Firras), Kevin (Lesli); Daughter Kimberley Schneidereit (Fred), Shawn, Zoe. Great grandchildren Henry, Rhys, Brynja, Jago, Shayla and Shamdon. He was preceded in death by his parents, step father Edwin Bruening, and brother William Bruening. His family was of utmost importance to him and his generous nature and love knew no bounds as the family continued to expand. He loved being near water. The paradise he called Eden on the Lake was their home in Manitou Beach, where he would delight in pulling his children and grandchildren on skis or tubes. He was a voracious reader and consumate connoisseur of chocolate. Dedicated to his profession, Orval was a humble and faithful servant and strong leader. He touched and inspired many. He is forever remembered and eternally loved. Friends may join the family for a Celebration of Life Service on Sunday, July 23, 2023 at 1:00 P.M. at Bethlehem United Church of Christ, 423 South 4th Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. Light refreshments will follow the service and will be held at the Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Orval L.E. Willimann Scholarship at Eden Theological Seminary, online at https://www.eden.edu/donation-form/. (Please note the "Willimann Scholarship Fund" under "Describe Other Designation"). Donations can also be mailed to Eden Theological Seminary 475 E. Lockwood Ave. St. Louis, MO 63119. To leave a memory you have Orval, to sign his guestbook or for directions please visit www.rbfhsaline.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the Robison-Bahnmiller Funeral Home in Saline, per Orval’s request.

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Orval L.E. Willimann

February 12, 1933 - June 30, 2023