William Slater

All who knew William “Bill” Slater Jr. would agree that he brought the world around him to life. He worked hard in everything he did, and he was a firm believer in doing things right the first time. Bill was deeply devoted to his family, and he was the rock that his loved ones knew they could come to when the storms of life came their way. A lifelong resident of the community he loved, he willingly gave of his time and talent to help others. Life will never be the same without Bill here, but he leaves behind a timeless legacy that his loved ones will proudly carry on in his footsteps. The 1930s were a time unlike any other in American history as the entire decade was cloaked in the hardship of the Great Depression. Jobs were scarce, the unemployment rate soared, and there were few American families who didn’t feel the strain of the time. Despite the trials around them, William and Emma Slater were able to shift their focus to an exciting time in their own lives as they announced the birth of the baby boy they named William on September 9, 1935, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. In many ways, he was a typical young boy of his generation. New and exciting changes were in store for Bill when he married a woman named Ellen Brooks on November 17, 1951. Together they welcomed two children, Steve and Sue, into their hearts and home. Bill was actively involved in the lives of his children, and even as his children got older he remained an important part of their lives. He was there to help with any and all projects, which is why he was known as “Mr. Fix It.” Later, Bill taught his grandchildren useful skills such as, “measure twice, cut once,” which they all did without losing any digits! He also taught them how to hang a stud that was plumb, square, and level. Bill was filled with great joy to be blessed with five grandchildren altogether including Steven, Paul, Joshua, Lindsey, and Brittany. To support his family, Bill spent his career working in maintenance at Kline’s. His family was in for a special treat when they all went to the pancake breakfast at Kline’s. In 1994, Bill was deeply saddened with the death of his wife, Ellen. Throughout his life Bill was someone who kept busy, and he had many interests that he loved pouring into. For years he volunteered with the American Cancer Society and Relay for Life. After the death of his wife, Bill met Joyce Beckner, and they shared their lives together for 20 years. He loved wintering in Florida, and for the past 20 years they went to the Gulf side of Florida including to Anna Maria Island. Bill enjoyed shark tooth hunting there with his grandchildren and "Annoying Day” with the Slater grandchildren as well. He recently had told Sue that he was looking forward to going back to Florida soon. Every time he was down there Bill looked forward to his family visiting him in the spring. In addition to woodworking, he enjoyed golfing, fishing, and stained glass work. As his family and friends can attest, Bill had quite the sweet tooth as he rarely met a dessert he didn't like. He was a big game player including dominoes, cards, and anything else that brought the family together. With a life that spanned times of great change in the world around him, William “Bill” Slater Jr. was a blessing in the lives of so many around him. He worked hard, but he took the time to enjoy life along the way, often with his loved ones by his side. Bill was always happy and joyful, which is perhaps how he came about the nickname, “Mr. Excitement.” Although since he was also known as “Mr. Sarcastic,” he wasn’t without sarcasm at times. There was no greater gift in Bill’s life than his family, and it was when surrounded by their love that he was truly happy. Deeply loved, he will be forever missed. William “Bill” Slater Jr. passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, October 25, 2019. Bill was born to William and Emma Slater on September 9, 1935. Bill is survived by his significant other; Joyce Beckner: his daughter; Sue Gonser (Mike Colasanti): grandchildren; Steven Quada (Kayla Imler), Paul (Karen) Quada, Joshua Slater (Angel Nocis), Lindsey (Bret) Borock, and Brittany (Shaun) Rutgers: daughter in law; Michele Slater as well as several siblings. Bill is preceded in death by his parents; William and Emma Slater: wife; Ellen (Brooks) Slater: and son Steve Slater. Visitation will be Monday, October 28, 2019 from 4-7 pm at McCowen & Secord Family Funeral Homes, Rupert – Durham Chapel, 409 S. Main St., Vicksburg, MI 49097. Service will be at 1pm on Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at the same location. Please visit Bill’s webpage where you can sign the guestbook or leave a memory for the family. www.mccowensecord.com