Willis Rene Burdzilauskas, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away with his family by his side on January, 18, 2025 in South Florida, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication. Born on February 1, 1946, in Fontenay, France, Willis spent his early years raised with his grandparents and mother.

In 1962, Willis and his mother, Denise, relocated to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. There, Willis found a new home and community, adopting English as his second language and forging meaningful connections that shaped his future. Willis was adopted by Darwin Burdzilauskas, who, along with Burdzilauskas family and the Mitchell family, became a vital part of his life.

In 1964, Willis enlisted in the United States Air Force alongside his close friend Terry Frye. During his military service as an Airman, Willis honed his skills as a talented photographer. His development in photography highlighted his artistic talent and unique perspective. After completing his service in 1967, Willis pursued a professional photography career in Las Vegas, where his creativity and dedication flourished. Willis also embraced his love for music, becoming a skilled bass guitarist. He had a deep appreciation of various genres, finding fulfillment in playing and sharing his knowledge of music with others.

In 1969, Willis relocated to Palm Beach, Florida, where he met the love of his life, Susan. The couple married and built a beautiful life together, raising three children—Erika, Chad, and Wesley. Willis transitioned from photography to upholstery, establishing a successful business that spanned 30 years. His dedication to his craft and his family never wavered, and his selfless nature and tireless energy enriched the lives of everyone around him.

Willis cherished every moment spent with his family, finding fulfillment in being present for his children's activities and milestones. He loved watching his sons excel in competitive skating, supporting his daughter in her pursuits, and sharing adventures and quiet moments with his wife, Susan. Whether cheering from the sidelines or enjoying family time together, his unwavering love and companionship created a lifetime of treasured memories for those he held closest to his heart.

Willis's passions extended beyond his family and work. A classic car enthusiast, he spent many hours restoring and admiring automobiles with his close friend David Costakos. At the age of 50, Willis reunited with his biological father, Orville VanBibber (Alline), and discovered two sisters, Elaine and Cynthia, creating new and wonderful memories. He was a devoted neighbor, a constant friend, and a loving member of his wife Susan's extended family, Jeanie and Bill Tilley along with many cousins, nieces and nephews. His love also extended to his many four-legged friends, who brought him immense joy and companionship. Willis was a loving soul who treated every pet that crossed his path as his own. Over the years, he lovingly embraced the ever-growing parade of furry family members his kids introduced, including the always charming Chewy the cat, spreading warmth with each check-in and cuddle. Most recently Sammi was his loyal afternoon sidekick and Delilah is keeping him company, forever by his side.

Willis is survived by his wife, Susan Burdzilauskas; their children, Erika Burdzilauskas (Dan), Chad Burdzilauskas (Whitney), and Wesley Burdzilauskas; his sisters, Elaine Fleming and Cynthia Malding (Kenneth); and his brothers, Darwin Burdzilauskas and Kevin Burdzilauskas. A host of family and friends will always treasure his warmth, humor, and steadfast presence. His life was a testament to love, perseverance, and community, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Urn Committal Service will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, 2:30pm, at the South Florida National Cemetery, 6501 S. State Road 7, Lake Worth, FL 33449. Please arrive 15 minutes early in Lane 3. Following the Committal Service, a Celebration of Willis's Life will be held from 3:30pm to 6:00pm at NOBO Taproom, 2901 Commerce Park Dr, Boynton Beach, FL 33426. For those unable to join us in person, please use this link https://evt.live/willis-burdzilauskas-urn-committal-service-south-florida-national-cemetery for remote viewing of the Service, allowing friends and family from afar to honor and remember Willis together.

Though gone too soon, Willis's memory will remain a source of inspiration and comfort to all who were blessed to know him. He lives on in all of us.