Henry Willms

Henry Allen Willms, age 70, peacefully passed away Monday, December 11, 2017 in Harlingen surrounded by his family. Born August 1st, 1947 in Brownsville, TX to parents Norman and Geraldine Willms. Henry is preceded in death by his parents. Left behind to cherish his memories are his wife, the love of his life of 39 years, Gail Palmer Willms; daughter Karalisa McKim & husband Matt of Albuquerque, NM; sons Justin Willms & wife Chelsea of Austin, TX, Chase Willms of Comfort, TX and Derek Willms of Austin, TX; granddaughters Kassidy and Katy McKim of Albuquerque, NM; brother Gary Willms & wife Cheryl of Aqaba, Jordan; sister Myra Foster of Plano, TX; brother John Willms & wife Stephanie of Waxahachie, TX. Henry was blessed with many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

Henry attended schools in Los Fresnos, TX and graduated from Texas A&I University in 1971 with a degree in General Engineering. Upon graduation, Henry worked for TxDOT in San Benito working on the building of the Queen Isabella causeway. He remained with TxDOT for approximately 9 years before going into business for himself. Henry operated Willms Engineering & Surveying for 33 years providing engineering and surveying services to businesses and residences throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

Henry was also a 3rd generation American farmer.   Growing up on the farm, working alongside his father, he developed a passion for farming.    He planted & took care of numerous acres of citrus trees. People loved his fruit and would come back year after year to purchase it.

Henry devoted an enormous amount of his time to the Boy Scouts of America as a Den Leader, Pack Leader, Assistant Scout Master, and Scout Master over a period of 12 years. All 3 of his sons participated in scouting and Henry had the honor of being their Scout Master when they each achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. As Scout Master, he organized many camping adventures, some highlights being canoeing in the boundary waters of Canada, hiking parts of the Appalachian Trail, going to Philmont Scout Ranch, Baden Powell Jamborees in Monterrey, Mexico and tours of East & West Texas. Henry was awarded a District Award of Merit, the Paisano Award, and the Silver Beaver award for Distinguished Service to Youth.

Henry was a member of the Harlingen Rotary Club, and was a Paul Harris Fellow.

A memorial service will be held on January 6th, 2018 at 11 AM at First United Methodist Church, 321 E Harrison, Harlingen, TX 78550.

Memorial donations may be made to the Boy Scouts of America Attn: Rio Grande Council, P.O. Box 2424, Harlingen, TX 78551 (956-423-0250), or a charity of your choice.