William B. DeCoe Obituary
William "Bill" Berton DeCoe, age 87, passed away on April 21, 2026, at his residence on Wixom Lake in Beaverton, Michigan, after complications from Multiple Myeloma.
Bill was born on November 8, 1938, in Saginaw, Michigan; the oldest son to the late Berton and Agnes (Seney) DeCoe. Those who knew him best will remember him as a loving, kind and thoughtful family man.
After graduating from high school, Bill continued his education and served his country by joining the United States Navy. He served four years active duty as a Radarman aboard the USS Hissen, and two years in the reserves after he came home. His time in the Navy reflected the discipline, dedication and stories he shared that remained part of his character for the rest of his life.
Following his military service, Bill built a long and respected career with Grede-Eaton Foundries, where he worked as a Master Electrician/Supervisor, until his retirement in 1993 to his home on Wixom Lake.
On March 23, 2001, Bill married Jill (Crockett) Carlson and together they shared 25 years of marriage filled with love and companionship. He was a devoted husband and a proud father to his children, William Jeffrey DeCoe and Dawn Cherie DeCoe. He was preceded in death by their mother, Bonnie (Pierce) DeCoe, on February 15, 1993. Bill's family remained the center of his world, and he treasured every opportunity to spend time with them.
He was a beloved grandfather to Jason William (Lacy) Hobkirk, Jakob Scott (Quinn) Spann, great grandchildren Aubree Michelle Hobkirk, Carter William Hobkirk, Easton Scott Spann, Cooper Scott Spann, Trinity Rowe and Maddox Rowe. His grandchildren and great grandchildren lovingly called him "Pa Bill," a name that reflected the special bond he shared with each of them. He found great joy in their lives, their accomplishments, and the memories they created together. His love for them was unconditional and enduring.
Bill is also survived by his sisters, Iris (Lynn) Viele and Jennie Mae (Jerry) Comstock, as well as sisters-in-law Janet DeCoe and Debbie Crockett. He will be remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and extended friends and neighbors. He was preceded in death by his brother Thomas Mack DeCoe, great-nephew Jonathan DeCoe, brother-in-law David Crockett, and in-laws Floyd and Ruth Crockett.
Bill enjoyed a life filled with simple pleasures and meaningful traditions. He loved fishing and the art of fly tying, and in his younger years participated in motorcross racing. Family vacations at Houghton Lake and the DeCoe Family Cabin in Mio created treasured memories that will be remembered for generations. One of his favorite traditions was the annual grandsons fishing trip on the AuSable River, a time that brought laughter, stories and togetherness. He loved the holidays with his family and friends at the Crockett Christmas Tree Farm Homestead. There was a special place in his heart for his pets Corky I, Corky II, Sadie and Ruby, who brought companionship and great joy in looking for treats. He also found pleasure in feeding the birds, ducks and squirrels; and the quiet peacefulness of sitting on his porch.
Family would like to extend a heartfelt "thank you" to Compassus Hospice for the compassionate care given to Bill, especially Alysha and Jenelle who were absolutely awesome.
Those wishing an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation or Compassus Hospice (themmrf.org) and (compassus.com).
No services are planned and cremation has taken place; arrangements are entrusted to Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home-Gladwin Chapel.
