"Put your shoes on, get up and go...you'll be glad you went, once you get there".
Evelyn, also nicknamed "Sunshine", and "Friskie" by her Missouri friends, was born in Freestone, California. She was the second child and only daughter of Don Otto and Martha (no middle name) (Plomp) Todd. She was a 1941 graduate of Tamales High School.
Evelyn was raised in a musical family. Her father could play any musical instrument. Her mother played drums and piano. Her oldest brother, Lawrence, specialized in accordion. Not sure if her younger brother, George, picked up on the talent, but Evelyn could play the accordion as well. They all attended just about every dance in Sonoma County. During the absence of the men gone to war, the girls danced with each other. Evelyn always had a good time, wherever she went, spreading her laughter and cheer.
During the late 1930's, Evelyn would meet the love of her life, a farm boy, Edwin Willis, from Missouri. She would later come to call him "Pappy". Edwin, along with two of his friends, set out from Carroll County, Missouri, in an old pickup truck, headed to California to find reportedly "great jobs." Upon arrival, their plans didn't work out. Edwin said they nearly starved, if not for living off of oranges in an orchard where they 'landed'. (knowing the honesty of Edwin, he likely made restitution with the orchard owner when he was able.) Then, Edwin and one of the other men stumbled across the Mann Ranch looking for work. The ranch sprawled across the rolling hills, a spit away from the ocean. The ranch belonged to Evelyn's uncle and aunt, Guy and Ruby Mann. It was there that he met Evelyn, 11 years his junior. He declared early on, that he would wait for her to grow up, and one day make her his bride. When the war broke out, Edwin enlisted in the US NAVY. He and Evelyn exchanged letters, expressing their love for each other. While on leave, and returning to deliver his proposal of marriage, he discovered that his offer was one of three, and remarked that he was mighty glad she chose his.
Evelyn and Edwin were married March 4, 1945 in Sebastopol, Sonoma County, California in the Methodist Church. Evelyn's long time friend Dahlia "Delia" Del'Curto of Sonoma County, CA and Edwin's Navy buddy, John Wilson, from Milan, MO stood up with them. There were hundreds of daffodils surrounding them, picked and purchased by Evelyn's parents. After Evelyn moved to Missouri, her mother would send a freshly pressed daffodil in the mail on their wedding anniversary, without fail. Among wedding gifts received, were gas ration stamps, so they could have enough gas to honeymoon in the Petrified Forest.
With Edwin having just a few months left before his discharge with the USN, they rented a home in nearby, Napa, CA. During his enlistement, Edwin had his father purchase a farm along the Wakenda Bluff, in Carroll County, Missouri, which was acquired for back taxes. He would send money home to his father for payment and improvements. In 1946, it was decided that they would pack up and head for Missouri, where Evelyn would make the same sort of journey as her own mother once did. Martha Plomp, born and raised in Utrecht, Holland, came to the USA as a governess, where she met her future husband, Don Todd. After a year in the USA, Martha returned to Holland, during which time Don saved up money for her passage back. Martha only returned to Holland three times for visits with her family.
Arriving in Carroll County, Evelyn did not know another soul, other than her husband. Her robust personality soon became infectious to all who crossed paths with her. Her father-in-law and mother-in-law were flabbergasted when Evelyn placed the first Christmas tree in their home. Until then, Christmas was simple. An exchange of peanuts and an orange were given to the children, of which Edwin always said they were appreciative to have. But, Evelyn changed all that.
After living with Edwin's parents for a few months, Edwin's cousin and family found a place of their own, and the Willis couple moved in to their home on the hill. They soon celebrated the birth of their first child, a boy. They named him Robert Alan, but due to the misspelling of the birth certificate transcriber, the name of Allen was placed on it, of which it was never corrected. Over the course of the following 6 years, they would go on to have 2 more children, Linda and Loretta. Evelyn wanted a house full of children, and although was cautioned by the doctor to stop after one, took the chance. After the third, the doctor demanded 'no more'.
It was during these first few years that Evelyn was exposed to harsh winters, of which she was not accustomed, but never complained of. She was a great support to her children, and walked proudly right beside her husband. She was an independent sort, however, Edwin always allowed her to be herself. After her death, he and daughter Loretta, sat on their front porch in reflection, while gazing across their bottom ground, he gently said " I couldn't have picked a better life's partner."
And a partner she was. She was involved with every aspect of the farm. Whether it be to help bale hay, tend to the herd of cows, growing a huge garden or keeping up with maintenance or improvements, she did it all.
Evelyn loved to entertain. Sometimes with special occasion, more often with no reason other than to have friends over. 4'th of July would find the Willis yard/home filled with as many as 50 people, maybe more. Favorite times were spent with watermelon, home made ice cream and hot dog roasts. She painted metal chairs of bright colors and Edwin had their neighbor, Sidney Jordan, make her a 12' metal picnic table for her picnic area. Many a happy heart sat around it. The table is more than 60 years old, and remains in the family, now 33 years after her death.
Her love of the outdoors, often found dark on her heels before heading to the house. Sometimes supper was merely a bowl of cereal, but no one complained, as everyone else was out there with her. Sundays she would dress up in her high heel shoes, don her hat and gloves and take her children to church. Returning home, she would often fry chicken. It wasn't until, I, as her daughter realized that the neck, wings and gizzards probably wasn't her favorite parts, as she insisted, but because she was saving the best for her family. (I also thought that she enjoyed running the vaccum at midnight, but come to realize, it was probably the only time she had to squeeze in the time for it.
Falls found her picking up pecans from their many trees on the farm, as many as two tons. She later would begin cleaning offices in Carrollton, and business owner's homes, several, of which, would turn in to span over 25 years. She then became a partner with Billie Borchers, hiring out to do painting and wall papering for others, and later working with Doris Williams.
Through her contacts with so many people, there was also loss of friends. Few funerals did she ever miss of anyone she ever came to know, and always with her children in tow. This would instill in her children, just how special family and friends are. Evelyn's funeral was such a testament. On a chilly March evening, friends lined up for two city blocks to walk through the visitation. What a tribute to a bubbly gal who came to Carroll County more than 40 years prior, not knowing but one person, her life's partner.
Evelyn gave of herself for others, her entire life, helping the unfortunate, the elderly, welcoming new babies and mourning with others in their loss. Her love for her husband never waivered. When he was hospitalized for six weeks, she was discovered sleeping on the floor by his bed, she came home with him when he was released, never leaving his side.
Going home to California for visits, was much like that of her mother, seldom. However, her brothers and their families, did come to Missouri a few times, and her parents came every summer and stayed ...all summer. By end of summer, sometimes the air was a bit thick. Grandma Martha was a scheduled person, and Evelyn was not. We ate when we got to it, not at 5 p.m. on the dot. It's hard to swallow your food, knowing dark will set in and there's hay to be put in the barn yet. Evelyn's only signs of stress was when the kitchen cabinet doors could be found shutting particularly loud. A sure sign that exiting the room was a wise idea. Only her family was ever witness to what she would refer to as 'only a weak moment'.
Although she never changed her church membership at The Methodist Church in Freestone, California, she faithfully attended The Wakenda Baptist Church,of Carroll County Missouri. No matter what the church functions were, she was in the midst of it, offering helping hands and loving heart. Evelyn was proud that all three of her children were baptized, and became members of the Wakenda Baptist Church. She was a long time member of the Elderbloom Extension Club, and President of the Wakenda School PTA. During the Wakenda, Missouri bicentennial, she and other ladies of the community put together a huge celebration with a parade, games and entertainment. She heartily volunteered to be one of the targets on the dunking machine. Many days and nights she would be found being all involved with her children's school, church and 4-H activities, being their greatest support. Family functions on the farm would find her bucking bales, hauling wood, canning produce from the garden, raising tobacco as a family project, and the list is really endless. Between all that, she managed to hold down some part time jobs. She cleaned the homes of A.C. "Walt" & Lorene Walters, Joyce and Lavena Reuter, the offices of Dr. Wm S. Everett and Dr. John Trefz, all of Carrollton and for over 20 years. She and Willette "Billie" Borchers were custom painters, to include wallpapering. Later she and Doris Williams were partners in that same line of work. Evelyn loved to paint. When her children would get home from school, many times there was something new painted around the home, or out in the yard. A gallon of paint never sat around long. One of the things that would be remembered is that she painted the initials of the three kids on the bottom three steps of the stairway leading to the upstairs. She would place items on each of those steps, whether it be clean clothing respectively, or items that needed to go back to their rooms, it was expected that the steps be cleared off by morning. Some of her hobbies were, painting, of course, crocheting, taking tons of photographs, letter writing, planning all year for each Christmas, collecting earrings, souvenir plates, post cards, and she loved to visit, whether it be loading up the kids and just going to a friend/neighbor's house, or spending hours on the phone. Should any of those be in need of something, she was the first one in their driveway. Her first love, was her husband. "Pappy" as she called him. He allowed her to be herself, never questioning her, never worrying where she might be off to. There were no cell phones then. When he'd see the headlights pulling in, he knew that she and the kids had stopped off 'somewhere'. Although he was 11 years her senior, she never once regretted her decision of turning down other marriage proposals. "Pappy" was 'the one'. A few days after her unexpected death, my father shared with me "I couldn't have picked a better life's partner". Most assuredly, she felt the same.
Evelyn's life on this earth was only 61 years, 3 months and 1 day, but she packed it full of fun, and spread it around. Her love of her husband, children, grandchildren, and multitudes of friends were quite evident. After a short illness, God took her home, seemingly in an instant, her heart gave out. It's no wonder, it was so full of love.
It's on this Mother's Day, that I write this with much love, to the best mother that anyone could have asked for. I've saved the words that your other daughter, Linda, had first written.(below) You are unforgettable. I will love you Mom, until my own heart takes it's last beat, and we will all be together again. "Dumpy" - Loretta
****************************************************
Born in Freestone, Calif., she met and fell in love with the love of her life, Edwin Marion Willis while watching him work on her uncle's dairy farm. They were married March 4, 1945, in Sebastopol, California. She was the mother of Robert Alan, Linda Kathaleen and Loretta Ann. They moved to Missouri and lived in the home Edwin purchased for back taxes from Carroll County, near Wakenda, Mo. until her death. She was known for her kind and generous spirit. She spent many years as a stay at home mom, then worked in various homes and offices cleaning and also did painting and papering. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Daughter of Don Otto and Martha (Plomp) Todd. Sister of Lawrence and George Todd. (Written by their second child, and first daughter, Linda Willis Stephenson).
Remembrance of you, Mama, for Mother's Day, 2022. ..........
About once a month I'd find a shiny quarter when I let the dishwater out of the sink. It would buy me a bag of bbq chips and a slim jim next time we went to town. We were taught that fullness of heart was far more a treasured reward than getting paid for everything we did. Whether it be for family, friends, self, or strangers. Being 'allowed to live there', was one of my richest blessings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Evelyn and Edwin. She called him "Pappy", he called her "Mamma". 43 years of the storybook kind. I'm sure there were 'moments', but we never heard, nor seen them. Many times she'd ask "You love me Pappy?". He'd put his arm around her and look into her eyes,"Yes Mamma". "How come?" "I don't know why, I just do". Then he'd plant a kiss on her cheek and walk away. I think they both knew why, it didn't have to always be said.
Evelyn, also nicknamed "Sunshine", and "Friskie" by her Missouri friends, was born in Freestone, California. She was the second child and only daughter of Don Otto and Martha (no middle name) (Plomp) Todd. She was a 1941 graduate of Tamales High School.
Evelyn was raised in a musical family. Her father could play any musical instrument. Her mother played drums and piano. Her oldest brother, Lawrence, specialized in accordion. Not sure if her younger brother, George, picked up on the talent, but Evelyn could play the accordion as well. They all attended just about every dance in Sonoma County. During the absence of the men gone to war, the girls danced with each other. Evelyn always had a good time, wherever she went, spreading her laughter and cheer.
During the late 1930's, Evelyn would meet the love of her life, a farm boy, Edwin Willis, from Missouri. She would later come to call him "Pappy". Edwin, along with two of his friends, set out from Carroll County, Missouri, in an old pickup truck, headed to California to find reportedly "great jobs." Upon arrival, their plans didn't work out. Edwin said they nearly starved, if not for living off of oranges in an orchard where they 'landed'. (knowing the honesty of Edwin, he likely made restitution with the orchard owner when he was able.) Then, Edwin and one of the other men stumbled across the Mann Ranch looking for work. The ranch sprawled across the rolling hills, a spit away from the ocean. The ranch belonged to Evelyn's uncle and aunt, Guy and Ruby Mann. It was there that he met Evelyn, 11 years his junior. He declared early on, that he would wait for her to grow up, and one day make her his bride. When the war broke out, Edwin enlisted in the US NAVY. He and Evelyn exchanged letters, expressing their love for each other. While on leave, and returning to deliver his proposal of marriage, he discovered that his offer was one of three, and remarked that he was mighty glad she chose his.
Evelyn and Edwin were married March 4, 1945 in Sebastopol, Sonoma County, California in the Methodist Church. Evelyn's long time friend Dahlia "Delia" Del'Curto of Sonoma County, CA and Edwin's Navy buddy, John Wilson, from Milan, MO stood up with them. There were hundreds of daffodils surrounding them, picked and purchased by Evelyn's parents. After Evelyn moved to Missouri, her mother would send a freshly pressed daffodil in the mail on their wedding anniversary, without fail. Among wedding gifts received, were gas ration stamps, so they could have enough gas to honeymoon in the Petrified Forest.
With Edwin having just a few months left before his discharge with the USN, they rented a home in nearby, Napa, CA. During his enlistement, Edwin had his father purchase a farm along the Wakenda Bluff, in Carroll County, Missouri, which was acquired for back taxes. He would send money home to his father for payment and improvements. In 1946, it was decided that they would pack up and head for Missouri, where Evelyn would make the same sort of journey as her own mother once did. Martha Plomp, born and raised in Utrecht, Holland, came to the USA as a governess, where she met her future husband, Don Todd. After a year in the USA, Martha returned to Holland, during which time Don saved up money for her passage back. Martha only returned to Holland three times for visits with her family.
Arriving in Carroll County, Evelyn did not know another soul, other than her husband. Her robust personality soon became infectious to all who crossed paths with her. Her father-in-law and mother-in-law were flabbergasted when Evelyn placed the first Christmas tree in their home. Until then, Christmas was simple. An exchange of peanuts and an orange were given to the children, of which Edwin always said they were appreciative to have. But, Evelyn changed all that.
After living with Edwin's parents for a few months, Edwin's cousin and family found a place of their own, and the Willis couple moved in to their home on the hill. They soon celebrated the birth of their first child, a boy. They named him Robert Alan, but due to the misspelling of the birth certificate transcriber, the name of Allen was placed on it, of which it was never corrected. Over the course of the following 6 years, they would go on to have 2 more children, Linda and Loretta. Evelyn wanted a house full of children, and although was cautioned by the doctor to stop after one, took the chance. After the third, the doctor demanded 'no more'.
It was during these first few years that Evelyn was exposed to harsh winters, of which she was not accustomed, but never complained of. She was a great support to her children, and walked proudly right beside her husband. She was an independent sort, however, Edwin always allowed her to be herself. After her death, he and daughter Loretta, sat on their front porch in reflection, while gazing across their bottom ground, he gently said " I couldn't have picked a better life's partner."
And a partner she was. She was involved with every aspect of the farm. Whether it be to help bale hay, tend to the herd of cows, growing a huge garden or keeping up with maintenance or improvements, she did it all.
Evelyn loved to entertain. Sometimes with special occasion, more often with no reason other than to have friends over. 4'th of July would find the Willis yard/home filled with as many as 50 people, maybe more. Favorite times were spent with watermelon, home made ice cream and hot dog roasts. She painted metal chairs of bright colors and Edwin had their neighbor, Sidney Jordan, make her a 12' metal picnic table for her picnic area. Many a happy heart sat around it. The table is more than 60 years old, and remains in the family, now 33 years after her death.
Her love of the outdoors, often found dark on her heels before heading to the house. Sometimes supper was merely a bowl of cereal, but no one complained, as everyone else was out there with her. Sundays she would dress up in her high heel shoes, don her hat and gloves and take her children to church. Returning home, she would often fry chicken. It wasn't until, I, as her daughter realized that the neck, wings and gizzards probably wasn't her favorite parts, as she insisted, but because she was saving the best for her family. (I also thought that she enjoyed running the vaccum at midnight, but come to realize, it was probably the only time she had to squeeze in the time for it.
Falls found her picking up pecans from their many trees on the farm, as many as two tons. She later would begin cleaning offices in Carrollton, and business owner's homes, several, of which, would turn in to span over 25 years. She then became a partner with Billie Borchers, hiring out to do painting and wall papering for others, and later working with Doris Williams.
Through her contacts with so many people, there was also loss of friends. Few funerals did she ever miss of anyone she ever came to know, and always with her children in tow. This would instill in her children, just how special family and friends are. Evelyn's funeral was such a testament. On a chilly March evening, friends lined up for two city blocks to walk through the visitation. What a tribute to a bubbly gal who came to Carroll County more than 40 years prior, not knowing but one person, her life's partner.
Evelyn gave of herself for others, her entire life, helping the unfortunate, the elderly, welcoming new babies and mourning with others in their loss. Her love for her husband never waivered. When he was hospitalized for six weeks, she was discovered sleeping on the floor by his bed, she came home with him when he was released, never leaving his side.
Going home to California for visits, was much like that of her mother, seldom. However, her brothers and their families, did come to Missouri a few times, and her parents came every summer and stayed ...all summer. By end of summer, sometimes the air was a bit thick. Grandma Martha was a scheduled person, and Evelyn was not. We ate when we got to it, not at 5 p.m. on the dot. It's hard to swallow your food, knowing dark will set in and there's hay to be put in the barn yet. Evelyn's only signs of stress was when the kitchen cabinet doors could be found shutting particularly loud. A sure sign that exiting the room was a wise idea. Only her family was ever witness to what she would refer to as 'only a weak moment'.
Although she never changed her church membership at The Methodist Church in Freestone, California, she faithfully attended The Wakenda Baptist Church,of Carroll County Missouri. No matter what the church functions were, she was in the midst of it, offering helping hands and loving heart. Evelyn was proud that all three of her children were baptized, and became members of the Wakenda Baptist Church. She was a long time member of the Elderbloom Extension Club, and President of the Wakenda School PTA. During the Wakenda, Missouri bicentennial, she and other ladies of the community put together a huge celebration with a parade, games and entertainment. She heartily volunteered to be one of the targets on the dunking machine. Many days and nights she would be found being all involved with her children's school, church and 4-H activities, being their greatest support. Family functions on the farm would find her bucking bales, hauling wood, canning produce from the garden, raising tobacco as a family project, and the list is really endless. Between all that, she managed to hold down some part time jobs. She cleaned the homes of A.C. "Walt" & Lorene Walters, Joyce and Lavena Reuter, the offices of Dr. Wm S. Everett and Dr. John Trefz, all of Carrollton and for over 20 years. She and Willette "Billie" Borchers were custom painters, to include wallpapering. Later she and Doris Williams were partners in that same line of work. Evelyn loved to paint. When her children would get home from school, many times there was something new painted around the home, or out in the yard. A gallon of paint never sat around long. One of the things that would be remembered is that she painted the initials of the three kids on the bottom three steps of the stairway leading to the upstairs. She would place items on each of those steps, whether it be clean clothing respectively, or items that needed to go back to their rooms, it was expected that the steps be cleared off by morning. Some of her hobbies were, painting, of course, crocheting, taking tons of photographs, letter writing, planning all year for each Christmas, collecting earrings, souvenir plates, post cards, and she loved to visit, whether it be loading up the kids and just going to a friend/neighbor's house, or spending hours on the phone. Should any of those be in need of something, she was the first one in their driveway. Her first love, was her husband. "Pappy" as she called him. He allowed her to be herself, never questioning her, never worrying where she might be off to. There were no cell phones then. When he'd see the headlights pulling in, he knew that she and the kids had stopped off 'somewhere'. Although he was 11 years her senior, she never once regretted her decision of turning down other marriage proposals. "Pappy" was 'the one'. A few days after her unexpected death, my father shared with me "I couldn't have picked a better life's partner". Most assuredly, she felt the same.
Evelyn's life on this earth was only 61 years, 3 months and 1 day, but she packed it full of fun, and spread it around. Her love of her husband, children, grandchildren, and multitudes of friends were quite evident. After a short illness, God took her home, seemingly in an instant, her heart gave out. It's no wonder, it was so full of love.
It's on this Mother's Day, that I write this with much love, to the best mother that anyone could have asked for. I've saved the words that your other daughter, Linda, had first written.(below) You are unforgettable. I will love you Mom, until my own heart takes it's last beat, and we will all be together again. "Dumpy" - Loretta
****************************************************
Born in Freestone, Calif., she met and fell in love with the love of her life, Edwin Marion Willis while watching him work on her uncle's dairy farm. They were married March 4, 1945, in Sebastopol, California. She was the mother of Robert Alan, Linda Kathaleen and Loretta Ann. They moved to Missouri and lived in the home Edwin purchased for back taxes from Carroll County, near Wakenda, Mo. until her death. She was known for her kind and generous spirit. She spent many years as a stay at home mom, then worked in various homes and offices cleaning and also did painting and papering. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Daughter of Don Otto and Martha (Plomp) Todd. Sister of Lawrence and George Todd. (Written by their second child, and first daughter, Linda Willis Stephenson).
Remembrance of you, Mama, for Mother's Day, 2022. ..........
About once a month I'd find a shiny quarter when I let the dishwater out of the sink. It would buy me a bag of bbq chips and a slim jim next time we went to town. We were taught that fullness of heart was far more a treasured reward than getting paid for everything we did. Whether it be for family, friends, self, or strangers. Being 'allowed to live there', was one of my richest blessings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Evelyn and Edwin. She called him "Pappy", he called her "Mamma". 43 years of the storybook kind. I'm sure there were 'moments', but we never heard, nor seen them. Many times she'd ask "You love me Pappy?". He'd put his arm around her and look into her eyes,"Yes Mamma". "How come?" "I don't know why, I just do". Then he'd plant a kiss on her cheek and walk away. I think they both knew why, it didn't have to always be said.
"Put your shoes on, get up and go...you'll be glad you went, once you get there".
Evelyn, also nicknamed "Sunshine", and "Friskie" by her Missouri friends, was born in Freestone, California. She was the second child and only daughter of Don Otto and Martha (no middle name) (Plomp) Todd. She was a 1941 graduate of Tamales High School.
Evelyn was raised in a musical family. Her father could play any musical instrument. Her mother played drums and piano. Her oldest brother, Lawrence, specialized in accordion. Not sure if her younger brother, George, picked up on the talent, but Evelyn could play the accordion as well. They all attended just about every dance in Sonoma County. During the absence of the men gone to war, the girls danced with each other. Evelyn always had a good time, wherever she went, spreading her laughter and cheer.
During the late 1930's, Evelyn would meet the love of her life, a farm boy, Edwin Willis, from Missouri. She would later come to call him "Pappy". Edwin, along with two of his friends, set out from Carroll County, Missouri, in an old pickup truck, headed to California to find reportedly "great jobs." Upon arrival, their plans didn't work out. Edwin said they nearly starved, if not for living off of oranges in an orchard where they 'landed'. (knowing the honesty of Edwin, he likely made restitution with the orchard owner when he was able.) Then, Edwin and one of the other men stumbled across the Mann Ranch looking for work. The ranch sprawled across the rolling hills, a spit away from the ocean. The ranch belonged to Evelyn's uncle and aunt, Guy and Ruby Mann. It was there that he met Evelyn, 11 years his junior. He declared early on, that he would wait for her to grow up, and one day make her his bride. When the war broke out, Edwin enlisted in the US NAVY. He and Evelyn exchanged letters, expressing their love for each other. While on leave, and returning to deliver his proposal of marriage, he discovered that his offer was one of three, and remarked that he was mighty glad she chose his.
Evelyn and Edwin were married March 4, 1945 in Sebastopol, Sonoma County, California in the Methodist Church. Evelyn's long time friend Dahlia "Delia" Del'Curto of Sonoma County, CA and Edwin's Navy buddy, John Wilson, from Milan, MO stood up with them. There were hundreds of daffodils surrounding them, picked and purchased by Evelyn's parents. After Evelyn moved to Missouri, her mother would send a freshly pressed daffodil in the mail on their wedding anniversary, without fail. Among wedding gifts received, were gas ration stamps, so they could have enough gas to honeymoon in the Petrified Forest.
With Edwin having just a few months left before his discharge with the USN, they rented a home in nearby, Napa, CA. During his enlistement, Edwin had his father purchase a farm along the Wakenda Bluff, in Carroll County, Missouri, which was acquired for back taxes. He would send money home to his father for payment and improvements. In 1946, it was decided that they would pack up and head for Missouri, where Evelyn would make the same sort of journey as her own mother once did. Martha Plomp, born and raised in Utrecht, Holland, came to the USA as a governess, where she met her future husband, Don Todd. After a year in the USA, Martha returned to Holland, during which time Don saved up money for her passage back. Martha only returned to Holland three times for visits with her family.
Arriving in Carroll County, Evelyn did not know another soul, other than her husband. Her robust personality soon became infectious to all who crossed paths with her. Her father-in-law and mother-in-law were flabbergasted when Evelyn placed the first Christmas tree in their home. Until then, Christmas was simple. An exchange of peanuts and an orange were given to the children, of which Edwin always said they were appreciative to have. But, Evelyn changed all that.
After living with Edwin's parents for a few months, Edwin's cousin and family found a place of their own, and the Willis couple moved in to their home on the hill. They soon celebrated the birth of their first child, a boy. They named him Robert Alan, but due to the misspelling of the birth certificate transcriber, the name of Allen was placed on it, of which it was never corrected. Over the course of the following 6 years, they would go on to have 2 more children, Linda and Loretta. Evelyn wanted a house full of children, and although was cautioned by the doctor to stop after one, took the chance. After the third, the doctor demanded 'no more'.
It was during these first few years that Evelyn was exposed to harsh winters, of which she was not accustomed, but never complained of. She was a great support to her children, and walked proudly right beside her husband. She was an independent sort, however, Edwin always allowed her to be herself. After her death, he and daughter Loretta, sat on their front porch in reflection, while gazing across their bottom ground, he gently said " I couldn't have picked a better life's partner."
And a partner she was. She was involved with every aspect of the farm. Whether it be to help bale hay, tend to the herd of cows, growing a huge garden or keeping up with maintenance or improvements, she did it all.
Evelyn loved to entertain. Sometimes with special occasion, more often with no reason other than to have friends over. 4'th of July would find the Willis yard/home filled with as many as 50 people, maybe more. Favorite times were spent with watermelon, home made ice cream and hot dog roasts. She painted metal chairs of bright colors and Edwin had their neighbor, Sidney Jordan, make her a 12' metal picnic table for her picnic area. Many a happy heart sat around it. The table is more than 60 years old, and remains in the family, now 33 years after her death.
Her love of the outdoors, often found dark on her heels before heading to the house. Sometimes supper was merely a bowl of cereal, but no one complained, as everyone else was out there with her. Sundays she would dress up in her high heel shoes, don her hat and gloves and take her children to church. Returning home, she would often fry chicken. It wasn't until, I, as her daughter realized that the neck, wings and gizzards probably wasn't her favorite parts, as she insisted, but because she was saving the best for her family. (I also thought that she enjoyed running the vaccum at midnight, but come to realize, it was probably the only time she had to squeeze in the time for it.
Falls found her picking up pecans from their many trees on the farm, as many as two tons. She later would begin cleaning offices in Carrollton, and business owner's homes, several, of which, would turn in to span over 25 years. She then became a partner with Billie Borchers, hiring out to do painting and wall papering for others, and later working with Doris Williams.
Through her contacts with so many people, there was also loss of friends. Few funerals did she ever miss of anyone she ever came to know, and always with her children in tow. This would instill in her children, just how special family and friends are. Evelyn's funeral was such a testament. On a chilly March evening, friends lined up for two city blocks to walk through the visitation. What a tribute to a bubbly gal who came to Carroll County more than 40 years prior, not knowing but one person, her life's partner.
Evelyn gave of herself for others, her entire life, helping the unfortunate, the elderly, welcoming new babies and mourning with others in their loss. Her love for her husband never waivered. When he was hospitalized for six weeks, she was discovered sleeping on the floor by his bed, she came home with him when he was released, never leaving his side.
Going home to California for visits, was much like that of her mother, seldom. However, her brothers and their families, did come to Missouri a few times, and her parents came every summer and stayed ...all summer. By end of summer, sometimes the air was a bit thick. Grandma Martha was a scheduled person, and Evelyn was not. We ate when we got to it, not at 5 p.m. on the dot. It's hard to swallow your food, knowing dark will set in and there's hay to be put in the barn yet. Evelyn's only signs of stress was when the kitchen cabinet doors could be found shutting particularly loud. A sure sign that exiting the room was a wise idea. Only her family was ever witness to what she would refer to as 'only a weak moment'.
Although she never changed her church membership at The Methodist Church in Freestone, California, she faithfully attended The Wakenda Baptist Church,of Carroll County Missouri. No matter what the church functions were, she was in the midst of it, offering helping hands and loving heart. Evelyn was proud that all three of her children were baptized, and became members of the Wakenda Baptist Church. She was a long time member of the Elderbloom Extension Club, and President of the Wakenda School PTA. During the Wakenda, Missouri bicentennial, she and other ladies of the community put together a huge celebration with a parade, games and entertainment. She heartily volunteered to be one of the targets on the dunking machine. Many days and nights she would be found being all involved with her children's school, church and 4-H activities, being their greatest support. Family functions on the farm would find her bucking bales, hauling wood, canning produce from the garden, raising tobacco as a family project, and the list is really endless. Between all that, she managed to hold down some part time jobs. She cleaned the homes of A.C. "Walt" & Lorene Walters, Joyce and Lavena Reuter, the offices of Dr. Wm S. Everett and Dr. John Trefz, all of Carrollton and for over 20 years. She and Willette "Billie" Borchers were custom painters, to include wallpapering. Later she and Doris Williams were partners in that same line of work. Evelyn loved to paint. When her children would get home from school, many times there was something new painted around the home, or out in the yard. A gallon of paint never sat around long. One of the things that would be remembered is that she painted the initials of the three kids on the bottom three steps of the stairway leading to the upstairs. She would place items on each of those steps, whether it be clean clothing respectively, or items that needed to go back to their rooms, it was expected that the steps be cleared off by morning. Some of her hobbies were, painting, of course, crocheting, taking tons of photographs, letter writing, planning all year for each Christmas, collecting earrings, souvenir plates, post cards, and she loved to visit, whether it be loading up the kids and just going to a friend/neighbor's house, or spending hours on the phone. Should any of those be in need of something, she was the first one in their driveway. Her first love, was her husband. "Pappy" as she called him. He allowed her to be herself, never questioning her, never worrying where she might be off to. There were no cell phones then. When he'd see the headlights pulling in, he knew that she and the kids had stopped off 'somewhere'. Although he was 11 years her senior, she never once regretted her decision of turning down other marriage proposals. "Pappy" was 'the one'. A few days after her unexpected death, my father shared with me "I couldn't have picked a better life's partner". Most assuredly, she felt the same.
Evelyn's life on this earth was only 61 years, 3 months and 1 day, but she packed it full of fun, and spread it around. Her love of her husband, children, grandchildren, and multitudes of friends were quite evident. After a short illness, God took her home, seemingly in an instant, her heart gave out. It's no wonder, it was so full of love.
It's on this Mother's Day, that I write this with much love, to the best mother that anyone could have asked for. I've saved the words that your other daughter, Linda, had first written.(below) You are unforgettable. I will love you Mom, until my own heart takes it's last beat, and we will all be together again. "Dumpy" - Loretta
****************************************************
Born in Freestone, Calif., she met and fell in love with the love of her life, Edwin Marion Willis while watching him work on her uncle's dairy farm. They were married March 4, 1945, in Sebastopol, California. She was the mother of Robert Alan, Linda Kathaleen and Loretta Ann. They moved to Missouri and lived in the home Edwin purchased for back taxes from Carroll County, near Wakenda, Mo. until her death. She was known for her kind and generous spirit. She spent many years as a stay at home mom, then worked in various homes and offices cleaning and also did painting and papering. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Daughter of Don Otto and Martha (Plomp) Todd. Sister of Lawrence and George Todd. (Written by their second child, and first daughter, Linda Willis Stephenson).
Remembrance of you, Mama, for Mother's Day, 2022. ..........
About once a month I'd find a shiny quarter when I let the dishwater out of the sink. It would buy me a bag of bbq chips and a slim jim next time we went to town. We were taught that fullness of heart was far more a treasured reward than getting paid for everything we did. Whether it be for family, friends, self, or strangers. Being 'allowed to live there', was one of my richest blessings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Evelyn and Edwin. She called him "Pappy", he called her "Mamma". 43 years of the storybook kind. I'm sure there were 'moments', but we never heard, nor seen them. Many times she'd ask "You love me Pappy?". He'd put his arm around her and look into her eyes,"Yes Mamma". "How come?" "I don't know why, I just do". Then he'd plant a kiss on her cheek and walk away. I think they both knew why, it didn't have to always be said.
Evelyn, also nicknamed "Sunshine", and "Friskie" by her Missouri friends, was born in Freestone, California. She was the second child and only daughter of Don Otto and Martha (no middle name) (Plomp) Todd. She was a 1941 graduate of Tamales High School.
Evelyn was raised in a musical family. Her father could play any musical instrument. Her mother played drums and piano. Her oldest brother, Lawrence, specialized in accordion. Not sure if her younger brother, George, picked up on the talent, but Evelyn could play the accordion as well. They all attended just about every dance in Sonoma County. During the absence of the men gone to war, the girls danced with each other. Evelyn always had a good time, wherever she went, spreading her laughter and cheer.
During the late 1930's, Evelyn would meet the love of her life, a farm boy, Edwin Willis, from Missouri. She would later come to call him "Pappy". Edwin, along with two of his friends, set out from Carroll County, Missouri, in an old pickup truck, headed to California to find reportedly "great jobs." Upon arrival, their plans didn't work out. Edwin said they nearly starved, if not for living off of oranges in an orchard where they 'landed'. (knowing the honesty of Edwin, he likely made restitution with the orchard owner when he was able.) Then, Edwin and one of the other men stumbled across the Mann Ranch looking for work. The ranch sprawled across the rolling hills, a spit away from the ocean. The ranch belonged to Evelyn's uncle and aunt, Guy and Ruby Mann. It was there that he met Evelyn, 11 years his junior. He declared early on, that he would wait for her to grow up, and one day make her his bride. When the war broke out, Edwin enlisted in the US NAVY. He and Evelyn exchanged letters, expressing their love for each other. While on leave, and returning to deliver his proposal of marriage, he discovered that his offer was one of three, and remarked that he was mighty glad she chose his.
Evelyn and Edwin were married March 4, 1945 in Sebastopol, Sonoma County, California in the Methodist Church. Evelyn's long time friend Dahlia "Delia" Del'Curto of Sonoma County, CA and Edwin's Navy buddy, John Wilson, from Milan, MO stood up with them. There were hundreds of daffodils surrounding them, picked and purchased by Evelyn's parents. After Evelyn moved to Missouri, her mother would send a freshly pressed daffodil in the mail on their wedding anniversary, without fail. Among wedding gifts received, were gas ration stamps, so they could have enough gas to honeymoon in the Petrified Forest.
With Edwin having just a few months left before his discharge with the USN, they rented a home in nearby, Napa, CA. During his enlistement, Edwin had his father purchase a farm along the Wakenda Bluff, in Carroll County, Missouri, which was acquired for back taxes. He would send money home to his father for payment and improvements. In 1946, it was decided that they would pack up and head for Missouri, where Evelyn would make the same sort of journey as her own mother once did. Martha Plomp, born and raised in Utrecht, Holland, came to the USA as a governess, where she met her future husband, Don Todd. After a year in the USA, Martha returned to Holland, during which time Don saved up money for her passage back. Martha only returned to Holland three times for visits with her family.
Arriving in Carroll County, Evelyn did not know another soul, other than her husband. Her robust personality soon became infectious to all who crossed paths with her. Her father-in-law and mother-in-law were flabbergasted when Evelyn placed the first Christmas tree in their home. Until then, Christmas was simple. An exchange of peanuts and an orange were given to the children, of which Edwin always said they were appreciative to have. But, Evelyn changed all that.
After living with Edwin's parents for a few months, Edwin's cousin and family found a place of their own, and the Willis couple moved in to their home on the hill. They soon celebrated the birth of their first child, a boy. They named him Robert Alan, but due to the misspelling of the birth certificate transcriber, the name of Allen was placed on it, of which it was never corrected. Over the course of the following 6 years, they would go on to have 2 more children, Linda and Loretta. Evelyn wanted a house full of children, and although was cautioned by the doctor to stop after one, took the chance. After the third, the doctor demanded 'no more'.
It was during these first few years that Evelyn was exposed to harsh winters, of which she was not accustomed, but never complained of. She was a great support to her children, and walked proudly right beside her husband. She was an independent sort, however, Edwin always allowed her to be herself. After her death, he and daughter Loretta, sat on their front porch in reflection, while gazing across their bottom ground, he gently said " I couldn't have picked a better life's partner."
And a partner she was. She was involved with every aspect of the farm. Whether it be to help bale hay, tend to the herd of cows, growing a huge garden or keeping up with maintenance or improvements, she did it all.
Evelyn loved to entertain. Sometimes with special occasion, more often with no reason other than to have friends over. 4'th of July would find the Willis yard/home filled with as many as 50 people, maybe more. Favorite times were spent with watermelon, home made ice cream and hot dog roasts. She painted metal chairs of bright colors and Edwin had their neighbor, Sidney Jordan, make her a 12' metal picnic table for her picnic area. Many a happy heart sat around it. The table is more than 60 years old, and remains in the family, now 33 years after her death.
Her love of the outdoors, often found dark on her heels before heading to the house. Sometimes supper was merely a bowl of cereal, but no one complained, as everyone else was out there with her. Sundays she would dress up in her high heel shoes, don her hat and gloves and take her children to church. Returning home, she would often fry chicken. It wasn't until, I, as her daughter realized that the neck, wings and gizzards probably wasn't her favorite parts, as she insisted, but because she was saving the best for her family. (I also thought that she enjoyed running the vaccum at midnight, but come to realize, it was probably the only time she had to squeeze in the time for it.
Falls found her picking up pecans from their many trees on the farm, as many as two tons. She later would begin cleaning offices in Carrollton, and business owner's homes, several, of which, would turn in to span over 25 years. She then became a partner with Billie Borchers, hiring out to do painting and wall papering for others, and later working with Doris Williams.
Through her contacts with so many people, there was also loss of friends. Few funerals did she ever miss of anyone she ever came to know, and always with her children in tow. This would instill in her children, just how special family and friends are. Evelyn's funeral was such a testament. On a chilly March evening, friends lined up for two city blocks to walk through the visitation. What a tribute to a bubbly gal who came to Carroll County more than 40 years prior, not knowing but one person, her life's partner.
Evelyn gave of herself for others, her entire life, helping the unfortunate, the elderly, welcoming new babies and mourning with others in their loss. Her love for her husband never waivered. When he was hospitalized for six weeks, she was discovered sleeping on the floor by his bed, she came home with him when he was released, never leaving his side.
Going home to California for visits, was much like that of her mother, seldom. However, her brothers and their families, did come to Missouri a few times, and her parents came every summer and stayed ...all summer. By end of summer, sometimes the air was a bit thick. Grandma Martha was a scheduled person, and Evelyn was not. We ate when we got to it, not at 5 p.m. on the dot. It's hard to swallow your food, knowing dark will set in and there's hay to be put in the barn yet. Evelyn's only signs of stress was when the kitchen cabinet doors could be found shutting particularly loud. A sure sign that exiting the room was a wise idea. Only her family was ever witness to what she would refer to as 'only a weak moment'.
Although she never changed her church membership at The Methodist Church in Freestone, California, she faithfully attended The Wakenda Baptist Church,of Carroll County Missouri. No matter what the church functions were, she was in the midst of it, offering helping hands and loving heart. Evelyn was proud that all three of her children were baptized, and became members of the Wakenda Baptist Church. She was a long time member of the Elderbloom Extension Club, and President of the Wakenda School PTA. During the Wakenda, Missouri bicentennial, she and other ladies of the community put together a huge celebration with a parade, games and entertainment. She heartily volunteered to be one of the targets on the dunking machine. Many days and nights she would be found being all involved with her children's school, church and 4-H activities, being their greatest support. Family functions on the farm would find her bucking bales, hauling wood, canning produce from the garden, raising tobacco as a family project, and the list is really endless. Between all that, she managed to hold down some part time jobs. She cleaned the homes of A.C. "Walt" & Lorene Walters, Joyce and Lavena Reuter, the offices of Dr. Wm S. Everett and Dr. John Trefz, all of Carrollton and for over 20 years. She and Willette "Billie" Borchers were custom painters, to include wallpapering. Later she and Doris Williams were partners in that same line of work. Evelyn loved to paint. When her children would get home from school, many times there was something new painted around the home, or out in the yard. A gallon of paint never sat around long. One of the things that would be remembered is that she painted the initials of the three kids on the bottom three steps of the stairway leading to the upstairs. She would place items on each of those steps, whether it be clean clothing respectively, or items that needed to go back to their rooms, it was expected that the steps be cleared off by morning. Some of her hobbies were, painting, of course, crocheting, taking tons of photographs, letter writing, planning all year for each Christmas, collecting earrings, souvenir plates, post cards, and she loved to visit, whether it be loading up the kids and just going to a friend/neighbor's house, or spending hours on the phone. Should any of those be in need of something, she was the first one in their driveway. Her first love, was her husband. "Pappy" as she called him. He allowed her to be herself, never questioning her, never worrying where she might be off to. There were no cell phones then. When he'd see the headlights pulling in, he knew that she and the kids had stopped off 'somewhere'. Although he was 11 years her senior, she never once regretted her decision of turning down other marriage proposals. "Pappy" was 'the one'. A few days after her unexpected death, my father shared with me "I couldn't have picked a better life's partner". Most assuredly, she felt the same.
Evelyn's life on this earth was only 61 years, 3 months and 1 day, but she packed it full of fun, and spread it around. Her love of her husband, children, grandchildren, and multitudes of friends were quite evident. After a short illness, God took her home, seemingly in an instant, her heart gave out. It's no wonder, it was so full of love.
It's on this Mother's Day, that I write this with much love, to the best mother that anyone could have asked for. I've saved the words that your other daughter, Linda, had first written.(below) You are unforgettable. I will love you Mom, until my own heart takes it's last beat, and we will all be together again. "Dumpy" - Loretta
****************************************************
Born in Freestone, Calif., she met and fell in love with the love of her life, Edwin Marion Willis while watching him work on her uncle's dairy farm. They were married March 4, 1945, in Sebastopol, California. She was the mother of Robert Alan, Linda Kathaleen and Loretta Ann. They moved to Missouri and lived in the home Edwin purchased for back taxes from Carroll County, near Wakenda, Mo. until her death. She was known for her kind and generous spirit. She spent many years as a stay at home mom, then worked in various homes and offices cleaning and also did painting and papering. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Daughter of Don Otto and Martha (Plomp) Todd. Sister of Lawrence and George Todd. (Written by their second child, and first daughter, Linda Willis Stephenson).
Remembrance of you, Mama, for Mother's Day, 2022. ..........
About once a month I'd find a shiny quarter when I let the dishwater out of the sink. It would buy me a bag of bbq chips and a slim jim next time we went to town. We were taught that fullness of heart was far more a treasured reward than getting paid for everything we did. Whether it be for family, friends, self, or strangers. Being 'allowed to live there', was one of my richest blessings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Evelyn and Edwin. She called him "Pappy", he called her "Mamma". 43 years of the storybook kind. I'm sure there were 'moments', but we never heard, nor seen them. Many times she'd ask "You love me Pappy?". He'd put his arm around her and look into her eyes,"Yes Mamma". "How come?" "I don't know why, I just do". Then he'd plant a kiss on her cheek and walk away. I think they both knew why, it didn't have to always be said.
Gravesite Details
Evelyn passed away suddenly of a heart attack in her home, but was pronounced deceased at Carroll County Memorial Hospital, Carrollton, Missouri
