William E. Towne passed peacefully away at home August 14, 2016, surrounded by his family. Bill was born January 10, 1926 to Violet and Lawrence Towne in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
He was predeceased by his parents, a sister, Barbara, and his high school sweetheart and wife of 67 years Mary Joyce (Echtinaw). He is survived by his son David (Mary) Towne, daughter Janine (Mike) Kasinsky, 3 grandchildren, David William Towne, Heather (Brian) Reilly and Kristen Kasinsky, 3 great-grandchildren, Joseph, Grace and Jackson and his special friend Josie Keel.
Bill graduated from Hastings High School. He honorably served in the Navy during World War II, leaving as a 3rd class petty officer. He served in many ports all over the south Pacific. Bill attended Grand Rapids Junior College obtaining a two-year certificate. He worked numerous jobs, before purchasing the Color Center (Hastings) in 1974 and retired in 1991. After his retirement, he enjoyed square dancing, traveling with friends, and spending time at Gun Lake. He was an avid golfer (and enjoyed a beer after every game). Bill and Joyce enjoyed 25 winters in Texas. He was also an avid Detroit Tigers fan.
Bill was a life member of the American Legion and served 3 years as an honor guard, resigning due to health. He was past master of the Masonic Lodge, serving in all the chair degrees. He was an active 60 year member of the Methodist Church in Hastings.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bill's name to the Bronson at Home Hospice Care, 450 Meadow Run Drive, Hastings, MI 49058.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 17, 2016 from 5 - 8 pm at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 18, 2016 at 11:00 am at the First United Methodist Church, 209 W. Green St., Hastings, MI 49058. Interment will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Hastings with full military honors provided by American Legion Post #45.
Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home, please visit our website at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net to sign the online guestbook or to leave a memory or message for the family.
