William C. Manson

William C. Manson, 88, of Battle Creek, died Monday, June 8, 2015 at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo. Bill was born to Chester and Thelma Manson on October 24, 1926 in Milwaukee, WI. He graduated from Hartford High School in Wisconsin on May 31, 1945. After graduation, Bill enlisted in the Army Air Corps and served from 1945 to 1947. He received the WWII Victory Medal, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan).

On June 20, 1948, Bill married Betty Joyce Waters in Battle Creek, who survives. Together they raised four sons; Michael (Karen) of Burlington, David (Rebecca) of Battle Creek and twin sons Bruce (Lynn) of Battle Creek and Brian (Laurie) of Grand Rapids. Bill is also survived by 8 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who were his pride and joy. Bill was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather, William Leitzke.

In addition to Bill's military service he was employed by Godde's Bakery, Allman and Cumin's Bakery, Oliver Aviation Corporation, eventually retiring from Ralston Purina Company after more than 25 years of service.

Bill loved to spend his vacations fishing in Northern Michigan and Canada. He also had many fond memories of two fishing trips to Dale Hollow Reservoir on a houseboat in Tennessee with his family. He was also very passionate about working in his yard and was very proud of his beautiful vegetable and flower gardens. Bill will be missed very much by his family.

Visitation will be Wednesday, June 10, 2015 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home and Cremation Care, where funeral services to celebrate Bill's life will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 11, officiated by Pastor Fred Goebert of Factoryville Bible Church. Interment with full military honors will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the Wounded Warrior Project. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.