Willard Leon Sojourner

Willard Leon Sojourner (Willie)

Rieti, Italy - Willie, 57, passed away Oct 19, 2005 in a car accident. He was born Sept 10, 1948 to George & Dorothy Gaston Sojourner in Philadelphia, PA. He married his college sweetheart Jean Trombly. They were together 27 years and later divorced. They have three beautiful sons - Chris, Matt, & Josh.

Willie graduated from Germantown High School in Philadelphia. He attended Weber State University from 1967-1971 setting many records in basketball & high jump. He loved and excelled at all sports. He played in the American Basketball Association for four years with the Virginia Squires & the New York Nets followed by eight years of professional basketball in Italy. He returned twice to Italy as a coach. He also coached Roy recreational basketball teams, played on every city team between Ogden & Layton, and played church basketball for Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Roy & the Roy LDS 7th Ward. Willie participated in the Pro-Am Games in SLC and along with his sons, participated in the annual Utah Summer Games in Cedar City. The out-of-doors, camping & fishing also brought him great joy.

"Uncle Willie" died doing what he loved - living in Italy, coaching basketball & driving a BMW.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, George and Paul. Surviving are his sons, Christopher (Mindy Smith), Matthew (Dr. Heather Sojourner) & Joshua. His sons were his greatest joy & he took more pride in them than any of his other accomplishments. He is also survived by his ex-wife Jean and siblings - Lawrence, Ann, Faith, Dennis, Isaac, Michael, Arnetta & David.

Because of his friendly personality & generosity, Willie will be greatly missed by many, many people around the world. We would like to specially thank his niece & nephew, Natalie & David Sanesi, who helped make arrangements to transfer their uncle to the United States following his death and the wonderful people of Rieti, Italy who always held "Uncle Willie" in their hearts. The City of Rieti held an amazing memorial service with over 5000 in attendance prior Willie's departure.

Rather than flowers, donations can be made to Weber State Univeristy Scholarship Fund Development Office, re: Willie Sojourner, at 4018 Univeristy Circle, Ogden, UT 84408 or Our Savior's Lutheran Church 5560 S 2300 W, Roy, UT 84067.
CemeteryNONE

, UT
October 26, 2005

VisitationMyers Mortuary - Roy
5865 South 1900 West
Roy, UT 84067
October 28, 2005
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
ServiceMyers Mortuary - Roy
5865 South 1900 West
Roy, UT 84067
October 29, 2005
3:00 PM