William Pardee

Bill Pardee was a uniquely spirited man with a gentle heart. He was bold in the face of challenges and temperate in the midst of everyday life. He worked and played hard to make life for his family and friends the best that it could be. Bill was selfless in his care for his beloved wife, wonderful children, and delightful grandchildren.

Bill was born at a time of optimism when America was recovering from WWII. Growth in industry and jobs gave workers the opportunity to build homes and start families that launched the baby boom era. One such family was Ken and Starlight (Few) Pardee of Martin, Michigan who welcomed their fourth child into their lives on August 27, 1949. Bill and his three older brothers, Ken, Ron and Jim, would be joined by their sister, Luanne, to complete the Pardee family. From his early childhood, Bill was distinguished by the color of his hair and the feistiness of his character. He was the only one in his East Martin neighborhood with bright blonde hair, and he could fend off any challenge from kids on the block. He got into a lot of scrapes as a teen, but never lost a fight. To his brothers, Bill was unbeatable. His indomitable spirit carried him through life and inspired those around him.

After graduating from Martin High School in 1967, Bill got a job building cement silos. In 1970, a young woman by the name of Diana Dever caught his attention when they both stopped at a pay phone in Wayland. They began dating and enjoyed time together whether near home or on trips as far away as Canada. Their love grew into lifelong commitment when they married on December 4, 1971. Bill and Diana shared a life that was full of the joy of family and fun. They continued to travel, heading for the unique lighthouses of Michigan or to the casinos. One of their favorite trips was to Traverse City where they stayed on the bay and played the casino. They always loved stopping in Dublin on their trips for Dublin Jerky.

When their two children, Todd and Jessica, were born, Bill worked hard to support his family. Over the years, he was employed by Pet Milk-Dean Foods, Bareman's, Ryno Seed, and most recently, Hopkins Propane. Bill really enjoyed the people at work and had a knack for keeping things light with his inside jokes. He was thrilled when they put him in charge of the cylinder service. He enjoyed being his own boss for the most part and really felt at home in the job.

Bill maintained his vigorous work schedule even when his dear Diana became ill later in his life. She suffered a stroke and a heart attack, and Bill's tireless care for her helped Diana make a miraculous recovery. He was totally devoted to her and his children, just as they would be to him. When his own illness struck, Bill needed them to tell him to ease up on his own work and care-giving in order to fight the cancer. Still, he worked to pay the bills and support his family. They were his life.

Bill's family life was good for everyone. By his own laid-back nature, Bill created an environment that was peaceful and loving. He didn't let his temper get riled, so there was no arguing. Everyone got along.

Bill's children loved to spend time with him and so did their friends. Todd's buddies liked it when Bill joined them to play basketball, and they didn't seem to mind playing ping-pong with him, even though he beat them every time. What kid wouldn't enjoy hanging out with a hippie who drove a motor bike and listened to the Beatles and the Steve Miller Band! The cycle rides with Bill out to Grandpa Dever's place were the best. In addition to the fun he shared with his kids, Bill also enjoyed playing cards, especially Texas Hold em; woodworking, most recently making outdoor furniture; and ice fishing, particularly at School Section Lake in Watson. Bill boasted that he caught the best-tasting fish out of that lake.

Life with grandchildren only increased Bill's happiness. He played with his grandkids and made them laugh. They affectionately called their rather goofy grandpa, Poe. Being around Bill, life was delightful and secure.

Because of the wonderful life they shared, Bill's family will miss him deeply and forever treasure him in their hearts.

Bill Pardee, age 57, died at his home on March 23, 2007, after a brave battle with cancer. Bill's family includes his mother, Star Pardee; his wife, Diana Pardee; his children: Todd Pardee and Felicia Torres of Martin and Jessica Pardee and John Berner of Allegan; grandchildren: Makaila Pardee, Michael Hammer, Angelica Starlight Gorton, and Jonathan Berner II; siblings: Ken and Cathy Pardee of Watson, Ron and Rosemary Pardee of Shelbyville, Jim and Carolyn Pardee of Shelbyville, and Luanne and Terry Delp of Wayland; and many nieces and nephews. Learn more about Bill, view his Life Story Film, and visit with his family from 11-1 PM and 6-8 PM on Friday at the Life Story Funeral Home, Rupert, Durham, Marshall & Gren, 120 S. Woodhams, Plainwell, where his service will be held on Saturday at 11 AM. Memorial donations may be made to the Wings of Hope Hospice.