William H. Stacy

He was born on Nov. 9, 1927, to the late Clarence and Mildred (Payne) Stacy in Crystal Falls. Bill attended Crystal Falls School and due to challenging health issues, was among the first group of children to attend Bay Cliff Health Camp, Marquette, for specialized physical therapy.

He returned to Bay Cliff in his 80s and was given the grand tour, along with an opportunity to interact with staff and children. Bill’s excellent rapport with children and others throughout his life is evident among those who regard him as “Uncle Bill.”

Bill served in the U.S. Army from 1945-1947, traveling from New Jersey through the Panama Canal to Japan where he was to be stationed. Upon his return to the states, Bill worked briefly at a horse farm in Chicago where polo horses were trained.

On July 16, 1951, Bill married Doris Fillis at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, Crystal Falls, celebrating 73 years of marriage in 2024. They worked together as cashier/projectionist at the Delft Theaters in In Iron River and Stambaugh. Bill also worked alongside his father on the railroad in Crystal Falls before becoming a miner at the Homer Mine in Iron River.

In 1972 Bill’s efforts to complete his high school education became a reality when he received a high school diploma, the same year his daughter also received her high school diploma, and Bill was hired as a bus driver by the Forest Park School District. Upon his retirement, “Uncle Bill” received an engraved plaque in recognition of his service from 1972-1990.

Bill found joy in fishing (especially with his father at Cook’s Run), deer camp-hunting with family/friends (he was in his 80s when he bagged his last buck), listening to classic country music on vinyls, hosting family reunions with Doris, his wife, and lending an ear or lending a hand wherever needed.

He was extremely touched by the surprise birthday luncheon celebration planned by his family, friends, VA staff and volunteers on his 97th birthday.

He is survived by his wife, Doris; and his son, Doug (Brenda) Stacy; three grandchildren, Michael (Deidra) Stacy, Stephen (Amanda) Stacy and Shawn (Altijana) Gallup; five great-grandchildren, Autumn, Ella, and Hailey Stacy, and SJ and Shane Gallup.

Along with his parents, Bill is preceded in death by a daughter, Linda Gallup; three sisters, Marge Gustafson, Ruth “Bootsie” Makuck and Joyce Jackson; his brother, Alan; and a grandson, Colton Stacy.

Bill’s family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to his Oscar G. Johnson VA “family.” The medical, healthcare, auxiliary staff members, and volunteers provided outstanding care and kind, compassionate support.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 12 at the Nash Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Crystal Falls. There will be a funeral Mass at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13 at the Guardian Angels Catholic Church in Crystal Falls. Fr. Daniel Dapaah will offer the Mass of Christian Burial.

Condolences to the family of William H. Stacy may be expressed online at www.nashfuneralhome.net.

The family has entrusted the Nash Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Crystal Falls with arrangements.