Willis Joe Hennings, III, age 63, of Lake Station passed away Saturday, December 29, 2018. He was born on November 19, 1955 in Gary, Indiana to Willis and Jessie Hennings. Known to many as "Papa Joe", he was a pillar of the community, always putting others before himself. He spent his life happy with family, preparing his famous meals and working long hours. Joe was also a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post #100 and a Legion Rider. Papa Joe was loved by many and will be missed by all.

He is survived by his father, Willis Hennings, Jr.; sons, Joseph (Lisa) Hennings, Joshua (Lindsay) Hennings; daughters, Kelley (Anthony Giglio) Hennings, Erika and Brittany Winter; grandchildren, Greg (Krystle Gale) Fulkerson, Christopher (Emily) Fulkerson, Kaitlynn, Courtney and Kara Fulkerson, Jaxson and Jacob Hennings; great grandchildren, Julian and Annastasia Fulkerson; brothers, Kensey Alsman, Lloyd (Tammy) Alsman, Michael Hennings, Jeffrey (Beth Ann) Hennings; sister, Donna (Tom) Pappas.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jacob Hennings; and mother, Jessie Hennings. Memorial contributions in Joe's name may be made to the family.

A funeral service for Joe will take place Saturday, January 5, 2019 at 10:00 am at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Rev. Scott Jones officiating. He will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday, January 4, 2019 from 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm at the funeral home. For more information, please call (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com .