Freeman "Willis" Rolfe

Freeman “Willis” Rolfe

February 15, 1961-January 20, 2026

It is with a humble acceptance of Gods will that the family announces the passing of Freeman “Willis” Rolfe on January 20, 2026 at the Lionel Kelland Hospice in Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland at the young age of 64.

Willis was born in Botwood, Newfoundland on February 15, 1961 to Robert and Doris Rolfe.

Willis grew up in Point Leamington, Newfoundland with his parents and 10 siblings. At 18 Willis ventured off the island to work in Ontario. Once on the mainland Willis settled in Acton, Ontario and worked for KP Products for the next 36 years.

While in Acton Willis found the love of his life and soul mate Colleen (McKnight) Rolfe. Willis and Colleen married on May 4, 1985 and were blessed with 40 years of marriage, 2 beautiful children and 4 precious grandchildren that were their Papa’s pride and joy. Willis’ love for his

family and friends was always his top priority.

Willis is survived by the love of his life and wife of 40 years Colleen Rolfe, their 2 children Robbie Rolfe and Vikki (Brad) Kennedy and 4 grandchildren, Jacob Rolfe, Kaiden Kennedy, Kaleb Kennedy and McKenna Kennedy. Willis is also survived by brothers and sisters Gloria (Tim) Bolivar, Bernetta (Bill) Watkins, Barry (Marie) Rolfe, Ross (Cheryl) Rolfe, Lillian (Shawn) Sheppard, Lila Brent, Chris (Cora) Rolfe, Audrey (Tony) Dean, Derek Rolfe. And Brother and sisters-in-law Lynda Thompson, Bev (Archie) Baddeley, Steve (Rosie) McKnight. His Aunts Jean Aitken, Delphine Thompson, Pearl Thompson, Shirley Thompson, Emma Rolfe and many wonderful nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and so many amazing friends.

In heaven waiting for Willis’ arrival are his Beloved parents Robert (1991) and Doris Rolfe (2023), father and mother in law Jim (2007) and Joan McKnight (1991), brother Melvin Rolfe (2010), brother in laws Ron Brent (2026), Ron McKnight (2013) and nephew Jimmy Baddeley (1990).

Willis was always proud of his Newfoundland roots and never lost his love of the Island and the water. He was always drawn to the water and wherever he went it was safe to say if there was water that is where you would find Willis.

Willis was diagnosed with dementia in 2019 and as he declined the family decided in 2024 to move back to Botwood to be close to the water and Willis’ happy place. Willis enjoyed his walks with his trusted dog Buddy down to the water’s edge. As time went on and his memories faded the water, his family and his friends gave Willis a peace and comfort.

Willis’ family is sincerely grateful for the exceptional and attentive care provided by his home care provider Shirley Ball, Dr Powell, Dr Dean and the staff at the Grand Falls-Windsor Hospital and the Lionel Kelland Hospice. Your care and kindness did not go unnoticed. I truly believe God sent so many special people to care for Willis in his last days.

Go rest high on the mountain Dolly your work on Earth is done. You are now promoted to glory one of the highest honours.

Friends will be received at the Salvation Army Acton Community Church, 114 Mills Street, Acton on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A funeral service will take place at the Salvation Army Acton Community Church on Thursday at 2 p.m. Reception to follow in the church hall.