Douglas T. Willis—a complicated, garrulous individualist with a passion for foreign travel—died in his sleep Aug. 13. The long-term AIDS survivor (22 years) was 44.
Ever the world traveler, Willis would start making plans for the next country he wanted to tour. (He’d written a list of 40 more countries he wanted to see; unfortunately, he never got to visit either San Francisco or New York City.) Key West, Fla., was a sanctuary for him. But, after watching AIDS decimate too many friends/acquaintances in that gay mecca, Willis returned to Chicago. His quality of life improved; for a period of time, he even served as manager of the New Town Alano Club, an organization that helps with alcohol addiction.
Willis was a voracious reader who entered the nursing program at a local community college. However, recurring health crises kept him from continuing with his formal education. Many of his AIDS drugs had debilitating side effects, and his compromised immune system targeted him for a host of other medical conditions.
Although he had gotten to the point where, each day, he described his pain level as ‘excruciating’ and ‘surreal’—Willis’ soul wasn’t ready to die: there were too many experiences he had yet to enjoy. And enjoy he did! Five days before he died, Willis took himself to see Bette Midler’s show at the new ‘Venue’ entertainment center at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Ind.
Willlis’ body was cremated, according to his wishes. A memorial service, ‘To Celebrate Douglas,’ will take place Saturday, Sept. 13, 2-4 p.m., at the Zen Buddhist Center, 1710 W. Cornelia; 773-528-8685; zenbuddhisttemplechicago.org.