In every neighborhood, there are families whose stories are quietly woven into the character of the community—families whose warmth, resilience, and love for life leave a lasting impression on everyone they meet. In Deer Creek II at Forest Ridge, Steven and Wendy Willis, along with Wendy’s mother Gina, are exactly that kind of family.

Having lived in Forest Ridge for three and a half years—first in the Highlands and now in Deer Creek II—the Willis family says they quickly realized they had found something special.

“The people here are so friendly,” Wendy shared. “After living here, I cannot imagine living anywhere else.”

That sense of belonging means a great deal to the Willises, who have built a life centered around family, faith, and making the most of every season.

Steven, originally from Bladensburg, Maryland, and Wendy, who grew up in Arcata, California, have a love story that feels like something from another era. The two met while Steven was serving in the military, and what began as a connection soon turned into a long-distance romance. For four years, they dated through handwritten letters, building a relationship one page at a time before eventually beginning their life together.

Today, their family includes Wendy’s mother, Gina, who is 92 and lives with them, as well as their daughter, Tamara, who lives in Estacada, Oregon. They are also proud grandparents to 23-year-old twins, Brian and Gaige.

Brian made a name for himself on the golf course, earning a spot on the varsity golf team as a sophomore, while Gaige pursued competitive cheerleading and now coaches cheer herself.

Family is at the heart of everything the Willises do, and that extends to their four-legged family members as well. Their home is full of personality thanks to Bonnie, their Bernese Mountain Dog; Yuri and Luka, their Siberian Forest cats; and Gina’s beloved Shih Tzu/Lhasa mix, Lexi.

Professionally, both Steven and Wendy built careers in technology and data systems. Steven worked as a Senior Corporate Systems Analyst, while Wendy worked in data processing before deciding to step away from corporate life and focus on something that had become a passion—home renovation.

Over the years, Wendy has renovated five homes, and she and Steven are currently putting their energy into transforming their Forest Ridge home, often completing much of the work themselves.

“We’re still in renovation mode,” Wendy said with a laugh. “That’s been a big part of our life these past few years.”

When they’re not remodeling, the Willises stay active. They enjoy walking, bicycling, gardening, listening to music, and spending time outdoors. One of their favorite places in the neighborhood is the gazebo overlooking the pond.

“We love walking all over the neighborhood,” Wendy said. “The gazebo on the pond is one of our favorite spots.”

Faith also plays an important role in their lives. The family attends The Bridge Church, where they’ve built meaningful connections and found a great community.

Wendy has also dedicated time to serving others, volunteering with the American Red Cross during blood drives and volunteering in the schools attended by both their daughter and grandchildren.

Travel has also played an important role in their family story. Over the years, they’ve explored destinations ranging from Hawaii and the Caribbean to Mexico and Australia, where Steven once skied. More recently, they visited Friday Harbor in Washington’s San Juan Islands, a destination they remember fondly for its natural beauty.

The family also treasures memories of summers spent at Odell Lake in Oregon, where they water-skied, sailed, and kayaked in crystal-clear water.

At home, food and family traditions remain central to their identity. Wendy loves experimenting in the kitchen and is known for dishes like homemade tortillas, chicken piccata, lemon chicken pasta, stuffed chicken breast, homemade bread, and cranberry orange muffins with glaze. The family also enjoys local favorites like Los Cabos, Charleston's Restaurant, and RibCrib.

Holiday traditions are especially meaningful. On Christmas Eve, everyone receives new pajamas, a movie, and popcorn before spending Christmas Day opening gifts—one at a time, often for hours.

“Yes, it [takes] hours,” Wendy said. “But it [is] so much fun.”

The Willis family has also long shared a love of cars, often celebrating new vehicles with family dinners or special outings. For birthdays and holidays, they even rented limousines so the entire family could celebrate together in style.

Though they admit they haven’t yet been as involved in neighborhood activities as they’d like—largely because of ongoing renovation projects—the Willises already feel deeply connected to their community.

Between their faith, their family traditions, and their appreciation for friendly neighbors, Steven and Wendy Willis embody what makes Forest Ridge feel like home. And as they continue building memories in Deer Creek II, it’s clear they’re not just living in the neighborhood—they’re helping shape its story.

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