Renate H Willig

Renate Helga Willig, 82, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025, in Bowling Green, Virginia.

Renate was born on December 7, 1942, in Berlin, Germany, to Agnes Klauske (née Scheiper) and Eric Westpfahl. She grew up in the difficult aftermath of World War II and developed an unshakable determination and strong work ethic. Inspired by the ideals of America she saw in John Wayne films, she emigrated to the United States at age 17.

Renate was naturalized in April 1972. She went back to college for her degree as a Medical Technologist while working full-time and raising three young children.

Renate worked in hospitals and laboratories across Illinois, Virginia, and Florida. Renate loved her work and took great pride in her skill and precision and loved meeting people through her work.

Renate was a Roman Catholic whose faith was a constant source of strength. She remained grateful to Father Wolfgang Knauft and she maintained a lifelong friendship with him and his sister, Stephanie Weichart.

Renate married John Carl Willig, Jr. on January 4, 1964, and together they built a loving home and raised four children. She was a devoted wife and mother, remembered for her fierce independence, tireless work ethic, and enduring compassion.

Renate loved animals and requested to be buried with the ashes of two of her most beloved companions, Brownlee and Strüdel.

She is survived by her daughters Michelle Christine Arbec (Michael Curtis Arbec), Joyce Carla Willig, and Kimberly Kathleen Willig; her grandchildren Michael Curtis Arbec, Jr., Summer Rose Reardon, Willow Inez Reardon, and Alïa Kathleen Will; and many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

Renate was preceded in death by her husband John Carl Willig, Jr.; her son Timothy Herbert Willig; her sister Ruth Westpfahl; her mother Agnes Klauske (Scheiper); and her aunt Josephine "Finé" Scheiper.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday November 12 from 3-7pm at the Tews-Ryan Funeral Home, 18230 Dixie Highway, Homewood, Illinois. Funeral Thursday 11am Service at the Funeral Home with Interment to follow at Saint James Cemetery in Sauk Village, Illinois.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at the Bowling Green Rehabilitation Center for their care and kindness during Renate's final days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fredericksburg SPCA (https://fredspca.org/donate/), since Renate adopted her beloved dog Strüdel from there. For additional information contact tews-ryanfh.com or call 708-798-5300.