Willis Eugene Henning was born April 22, 1944, in Kansas City, Mo to Willis and Genevieve (Kenzile) Henning. He was raised by his aunt Mary (Henning, Becker) Smith from an early age.

He was a longtime resident of Salina.

Willis attended several schools during his youth, including Kinsley, Concordia. Great Bend, and Ellinwood.

He lived many years with his mother and stepfather, Lance Smith, in Hoisington while he worked in the oil fields.

Willis is survived by his biological siblings Gary Henning, Carl Henning, Richard Henning, Mary Roughton and Grace Knight, along with many Becker cousins who lovingly referred to him as “Uncle Willis”. He is also survived by longtime caregiver and friend, Jerry Taylor, and Willis’ beloved dog, Jake.

Willis was preceded in death by his biological parents, his mother and stepfather, his brothers Gary Becker and Gene Becker, his sister Ann Casey, two biological brothers Robert Henning and William Henning, a biological sister, Marjorie Henning Humphreys, and longtime partner, Carole Gier.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 22nd at Carlson-Geisendorf Funeral Home in Salina. Burial of cremains will be at Hillside Cemetery in Kinsley.