Born at Rosthern, Saskatchewan on 12 September 1925 to Henry James Willms (1888-1957) and his wife Elise (1890-1996), he moved to Winnipeg with his family in 1929. He graduated from the University of Manitoba, obtaining a degree in Civil Engineering in 1948. In 1957, he married Helen Norma Willms (1927-1981) and they moved to Kildonan Drive, where they raised their six sons.
He practiced engineering for over 50 years as a general contractor, building many notable buildings, bridges, and dams throughout Winnipeg and Manitoba. Other achievements were his involvement with Concordia Hospital, serving on the Board of Directors for 40 years, 20 years as Chairman, and serving on the boards of Bethania Personal Care Home and Autumn House.
Throughout his life, he enjoyed hunting with his sons and grandchildren, and spending time at his cottage, Holiday House, at Winnipeg Beach. He spent most weekends there year-round with family and friends, a cigar in one hand, a drink in the other, and his dog at his feet.
He died at Winnipeg on 14 May 2009 and was buried in the Elmwood Cemetery.
Obituary, Winnipeg Free Press, 19 May 2009.
Henry Willms, FindAGrave.
Henry J Willms, FindAGrave.
This page was prepared by Lois Braun.
Page revised: 1 September 2025
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