Ira Glenn "I.G. and Papaw" Willmann, 74, died on September 5, 2016 at his home in Mason, Texas after a long fought battle with cancer. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. I.G. Willmann retired as a Wildlife Biologist from the Texas Parks and Wildlife after 43 1/2 years of service. He married his high school sweetheart Sherry on June 15th, 1963. I.G. graduated from Mason High School in 1960. He was a friend to everyone he met. I.G. was extremely respected by his family, friends, and co-workers. He left a long lasting impression on everyone who were lucky enough to have met him. Bob Cook, a close friend and coworker of I.G.'s once said "If a feller couldn't get along with I.G., then he better take a close look at himself." His career with the Texas Parks and Wildlife granted him the opportunity to travel all over the state for the job he loved. One of his favorite places is the Big Bend where he has taken countless trips and vacations. He also had a love for the mountains of Ruidoso, New Mexico. Many road trips were taken with his wife and kids in their family station wagon. Often times getting lost on the back roads but always enjoying a laugh and the time spent with his family. He was known as Papaw to not only his grandchildren but also to the friends of his children and grandchildren. Watching his grandkids playing the sports they loved or just spending time with them gave him great pleasure. His love for family was evident to anyone who knew him.
He is survived by his wife Sherry Willmann of Mason, son Quint Willmann of Mason, son Quade Willmann and Wife Ashley of San Angelo, daughter Jayme Willmann and fiancé Jared Henrich of Mason, brother Willie Ray Willmann and wife Ethel of Mason, grandchildren Kason Silerio, Kaelee Silerio, Sutten Silerio all from Mason and Ryder Willmann from San Angelo. He is also survived by niece and nephews, David Willmann and wife Diane of Llano, Karl Willmann and wife Sandy of Houston, and Janet Willmann of Mason. He is preceded in death by his parents Marvin and Ruth Willmann.
A service celebrating I. G.'s life will be held on Saturday, September 10th at 4:00pm at the home of Squeaky and Tessa Farmer, 998 Old Pontotoc Road in Mason, Texas. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Mason County Cancer Benefit or the Mason County Volunteer Fire Department. The family would like to personally thank Yessica Vaquera for the love and caring support she has shown the family during this past month, Dr. Mark De Leon, Buddy and Kacie Bolley, the staff at MKM Home Health, Hill Country Memorial Hospice, with a special thank you to Anna Gurrola along with many friends and families who provided meals, calls and visits. All of your love and support has helped our family through this trying time.