Willy arrived in Steamboat in 1963 and fell in love with Steamboat and the West. After college he lived in Denver briefly but the Yampa Valley lured him back. He worked as a surveyor for many years before deciding to leave outdoor work to others and become a Realtor. Willy has been involved in many civic organizations and enjoys skiing, hiking, biking and exploring Colorado. He and his wife Carol have two daughters Katie, recently graduated from the University of Oregon, and Ann, a junior at the University of Southern California.