William R. Voelker, 60, of Clearwater, Florida, passed away on January 7, 2017. A Memorial service celebrating William’s life will be held at 6:30 pm, Thursday, January 12, 2017 at Central Christian Church, Disciples of Christ with Rev. Donna L. Oberkreser officiating. William (Bill) was born March 3, 1956 in Flint Michigan, the son of John Philip and Kathleen A. (Courtney) Voelker. He was the sixth born of eight children. He graduated in 1974 from Elizabeth Ann Johnson High School in Mt. Morris, MI. As a young boy, Bill loved building model airplanes and cars. He also loved animals and enjoyed working on the farms. Bill was a Veteran of the United States Air Force, serving from 1975 to 1979. He worked as an Aircraft Armament Systems Specialist. He was honorably discharged in 1979 at the grade of Sergeant. He later went on to study at Pinellas Technical Education Center in Clearwater and was awarded a diploma in Automotive Mechanics Technology. He has been a dedicated employee of Dick Carroll’s for the last 24 years as an Automotive Technician. Bill married Laurie Winter Voelker in Clearwater, Florida on April 4, 1987. They celebrated 29 years of marriage. He is survived by his loving wife, Laurie; their two daughters; Courtney and partner, Brad Lopez; Ashleigh and partner Mike Schaffner, and three grandchildren; Parker Lopez, Zhayne and Izabella Schaffner and his sisters; Janet, Phyllis, Kathleen, Margaret and husband Guy, Deborah and brother; Thomas and wife Esther, as well as many nieces and nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Linda. In his spare time, Bill’s interest included; reading, watching sports, playing golf, and repairing/restoring cars. He also loved spending time with his 3 grandchildren. He was a great friend to others and always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. He will be remembered for his kind smile and beautiful blue eyes. Bell will be greatly missed by his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Suncoast Hospice or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
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