Billy H Tanker

Billy Tanker, 71, was welcomed into heaven after enduring a lengthy struggle with Alzheimer’s. Both at 16, he married his sweetheart, Reba Bryant and together fashioned their life around each other for 49 years, including cross country trips with their motorcycle, relocating after retiring to Alabama and embracing the beauty of nature and all it had to offer, especially the deer and the colonies of humming birds that flocked their feeders. Reba died in 2012. Billy was passionate about everything he enjoyed; fishing, riding his tractor especially when grandchildren were in tow, his hearty garden, bicycling, and a good debate. Billy worked for Rockford Clutch for over 30 years and was considered a valued employee. After retiring he relocated to Alabama and took on a maintenance position with the Alabama School District. The staff loved Billy. More than anything Billy loved his mom. Billy was born May 22, 1946, in Fairhaven, MI to Eugene and Nellie (Peek) Tanker.

Survivors include mother, Nellie; children, Billy (Ligia), Steve (Kari) Tanker; grandchildren, Ty, Noah, Allen, Rebecca, William, Nellie; brother, Ricky (Peggy) Tanker; sister-in-law, Timma (Jody) Horsley. Predeceased by father; wife; grandson, Arthur Tanker.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Karen and all the staff at Lincolnshire Place for the loving care to Billy.

A Life Well Celebrated Service at 10 a.m. Friday, March 16, at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Rd., Machesney Park. Entombment following in Sunset Memorial Gardens, Visitation 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, March 15, at the funeral home. Condolences, www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com