William Joseph Heether, age 78, of Sheridan, passed away Thursday, March 31, 2016 at his home after a brief illness.  The son of Lawrence & Luella (Ritersdorf) Heether he was born on December 19, 1937 in Muskegon.  

On September 30, 1972, at their home in Sheridan, he married the former Ann Marie (Collier) Badge.   Bill spent most of his life in the tool and die trade, retired from the former Electrolux Home Products, and had been a member of the Michigan National Guard. 

A skilled woodcarver, Bill belonged to the Michigan Wood Carvers Association, and he and Ann enjoyed traveling with the local club, "Chips A-Flying." 

He was preceded in death by his parents;  a son, William Dixon III;   and a brother, Robert Hieftje.  Surviving are his wife of 43 years, Ann Heether of Sheridan;  their children, Dale & Ann Badge of Alma, Douglas & Debra Badge of Crystal, Donald & Karen Badge of Sheridan, Annette & Jim Hufford of Stanton, Rose Totten of White Cloud, Larry & Kally Heether of White Cloud, and Alisa & Will Vansconis of Greenville; a daughter-in-law, Marilyn Dixon;  two sisters, Mary Lober of Greenville and Wilson & Barbara Hoy of Greenville; a sister-in-law, Shirlie Hieftje of Greenville: eighteen grandchildren;  thirty great grandchildren;  and many other dear relatives and special friends. 

Visitation with the family is from 12-1 p.m. on Tuesday at Christiansen Cremation & Funeral Care, 511 S. Franklin Street, Greenville, where memorial services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday.  Bill's grandson, the Rev. William Dixon IV, will officiate.  Honoring his wishes, cremation has taken place. 

Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.  To send a message of  sympathy to the family, sign Bill's online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit:  www.ChristiansenCares.com