William "Bill" J. Turner

Williamston lost one of its favorite citizens with the death of Bill Turner on July 30, 2016 after a short bout with lung cancer. William Jerome Turner was born on June 9, 1928 to Mac and Marie Turner and lived most of his life in Williamston. Raised with a strong work ethic and a loyal sense of service to his country and community, Bill remained active and involved in farming and service organizations his entire life. He was a member of the Williamston High School Class of 1946 and earned his business degree from Michigan State University. An enlistment in the Navy during the Korean War promoted a lifelong relationship with the American Legion Post 296 where he served as adjutant for 30 years. He was proud of his service to the Webberville Lions Club, Masonic Lodge and Williamston Depot Museum. One of his life’s highlights was a random trip to Beaver Island in 1969 which resulted in a place that became a second home and made special family memories. Bill married Patricia DeLage in 1955. Together they started and ran a John Deere dealership in Williamston for 35 years. Bill and Pat instilled a work hard, play hard style as they raised their four children. He is survived by those children Mike (LeAnn), Susan Snow, Peggy (Wayne) Marlatt, and Dan (Kara) along with ten grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren; and special friend Arlene Czyman. He was preceded in death by his first wife Pat; second wife Jerrie; sister, Agnes Emery and his parents. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at Williamston United Methodist Church, 211 S. Putman St., Williamston. The family will receive friends on Monday, August 1, 2016 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at the church and one hour prior to the service. For those desiring, contributions may be made to Williamston Senior Center, P.O. Box 343, Williamston, MI 48895, or Webberville Lions Club, P.O. Box 615, Webberville, MI 48892 in memory of Bill.The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, Williamston Chapel. For those desiring, contributions may be made to Williamston Senior Center, P.O. Box 343, Williamston, MI 48895, or Webberville Lions Club, P.O. Box 615, Webberville, MI 48892 in memory of Bill. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.grwilliamston.com