Gladstone, MI
William Lee “Bill” Starnes, Sr., age 79, of Gladstone, passed away on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at his home.
Bill was born on December 25, 1943 in Ralph, MI, son of Harvey and Ada (Fox) Starnes. He attended and graduated from Escanaba Area Schools.
Bill was drafted into the United States Army in 1967 and served in the Vietnam War. Bill received and was honored with the Purple Heart. He was honorably discharged in 1969.
On May 15, 1976, Bill was united in marriage to Mary DeCaire. She preceded him in death in 2015.
Bill was a member of the Gladstone American Legion August Mattson Post 71, the Sons of the American Legion, was also active in the Marine Corps League Detachment 444 and was a life member of the Purple Heart. Bill enjoyed woodworking, hunting and fishing throughout his life and in later years especially enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson.
Bill is survived by:
Sons: William Jr. Starnes Of Gladstone, MI
William “Shane” Starnes of Muskegon, MI
Jarrod Starnes of Muskegon, MI
Kyle Starnes of Muskegon, MI
Daughter: Joan (Thomas) Klein of Chicago, IL
5 Grandchildren:Jaden, Jarrick, Kayla, Thomas and Matthew
Great Grandchildren: Aspen and Bryce
Many Nieces, Nephews and Cousins
In addition to his Parents and Wife, Bill was preceded in death by his Brothers and Sisters.
Family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 10, 2023 from 2:00 until 4:00 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Military Honors will be presented at 4:00 PM by the Gladstone American Legion Post 71 and the UP Funeral Honor Guard. Bill will be laid to rest in the Fernwood Cemetery.
Sherry Kay Johnson - Gladstone, MI
So sorry to hear about Uncle Bill . Boys you all are in my prayers. Sherry(Vanderlinden) Johnson
Robyn Godfrey - Little Lake , Mi
Our Mr. Bill we will miss your smiling face at the Legion you were one of a kind. And a great friend to many, Rest In Peace. You will not be forgotten. My condolences to his family.
Phyllis Leonard - Gladstone, MI
So sorry to hear about your dad. He was a good man
Tami auger - Albuquerque, Nm
I’m so sorry yo hear about Bill’s passing. My love to his children (my cousins) Shane, Jarrod, Kyle, and Joanie.
Douglas Crabtree - Coldwter, Mi
Hey Billie and family, Sue and ate deeply saddened by the passing of your dad.He was a wonderful man and I am a better person for knowing him.Rest assured he made through the gates as he had already served his time in he’ll. I hope you will join us for our upcoming reunions.
John Pickard - Gladstone, MI
So Sorry to hear about the Loss of our Brother and Fellow Duel Member of the Sons of The American Legion Squad #71. Bill was very Active and he will be missed. Prayers to Bill’s Family.
Jimmy Anderson - GLADSTONE, MI
Got to know bill when i worked at riverside Toyota, he was almost like clock work , coming for coffee every morning and shooting the shit.I will miss the man dearly. Thank-You for your service, You saved many without any thought of yourself. May God Bless you my brother!
Gary Lehman - Escanaba, MI
So very sorry to read about Bill’s passing. I’ve known Bill for many years, even before he knew me. He was a true Patriot serving our country proudly. From one Veteran to another…Rest in Peace Bill!
Russ and Mary Ann Verbeke - Wetmore, MI
I’m so sorry to hear of your passing, Bill. Russ thought the world of you, and you were so often in his thoughts. We always looked forward to you and Mary coming to the gatherings at the lake. We valued your friendship so very much. Your sacrifice is remembered by many. It was a pleasure and an honor to know you and count you as a friend. You will be missed.
Rest in Peace.
Joanie Klein - orland park, IL
Dad- I am so happy that I found you over 3 years ago through DNA testing and saddened that you have been taken away so soon. I searched for years to find you. When we reunited, you welcomed me with open arms. The love we had for each other and the memories we made in just a few years will never be forgotten. May you rest in peace with Mary my father and mother and your entire family. I love you and miss you. RIP Daddy