Michael Willcott 1949-2026
Michael F. Willcott, 76, of Leavenworth, passed away Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026, at home, surrounded by his family.
He was born Oct. 28, 1949, in Topeka, the son of Howard John and Bernadette (Grace) Willcott. He graduated from Immaculata High School in 1967. Michael then earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and continued on to receive his Juris Doctor from Washburn University.
He served honorably in the United States Army from 1971 to 1973, where he worked for the military police and earned a National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Army Occupational Medal (Berlin).
On May 13, 1972, Michael married the love of his life, Eileen M. (Duffin) Willcott, at Sacred Heart Church in Leavenworth.
He is survived by his wife; eight children, Christa (Jeff) Martin of Lansing, Brenda Willcott of Holton, Audrey (Chris) Etzel of Havensville, Damien (Melissa) Willcott of Leavenworth, Sean (Jennifer) Willcott of Holton, Aaron Willcott of San Diego, Calif., Gretchen (Jared) Renyer of Manhattan and Peter (Danielle) Willcott of Valley Falls; 22 grandchildren, Zachery (Emily), Nathan and Lizzie Martin, Preston (Lydia), Brianna, Emma and Maddie Ward, Grace, Katherine and John Etzel, Natalie, Brooke and Michael Willcott, Barrett and Maggie Renyer and McKenna, Ava, Sophia, Simon, Daniel, Maria and Gabriel Willcott; two great-grandchildren, Harrison and Ramsey Ward; five siblings, Howard J. (Pam) Willcott III, Kathleen (Robert) Mackovic, Doris (Duane) Rickner, Mary Jo (Kevin) Pyle and Diana (Randy) Wilson.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a granddaughter, Kenley Willcott.
Michael was an attorney at law serving the Leavenworth community for more than 44 years. He was also a municipal attorney and judge for multiple surrounding areas. He operated the legendary Willcott Liquor Store for the final 25 years, which was the longest continuously operating family liquor store in the State of Kansas. Michael was a member of the Leavenworth and State of Kansas Bar Associations, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and Knights of Columbus.
When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed gardening, hobby farming, taking trips with his wife, Eileen, and going to Lake of the Ozarks. He loved hosting a good party, Fourth of July fireworks and cooking his famous greasefest, where the recipe was “handed down from generation to generation” and leaving hungry was your own fault. He went over the top celebrating Christmas and enjoyed delivering his homemade candy to countless people around town. Mike’s greatest joy was his family. They were at the heart of everything he did, and the time he spent with them — making memories, celebrating traditions and being together — was what meant the most to him.
Visitation beginning with praying the rosary will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Mass of Christian burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday at the church. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to The Deeper Window Association (supporting Alzheimer’s and Dementia) or Children’s Mercy Hospital.
(PAID OBITUARY)
