William Story

William Brian Story, 60 passed away Tuesday, May 12, 2020. Bill, to his family and friends, was born October 26, 1959 in Battle Creek, MI. where he spent his youth with his parents, a middle brother between two sisters.  As a child he loved and played Little League baseball while cultivating a flourishing paper route. His love of baseball continued right on through high school.  He was a proud Battle Creek Central High School Bearcat and was a member of the Bearcat Golf team.  Directly after High School he enlisted in the Army branch of the military where he was deployed to Germany.  He then spent time in Texas living the adventure of a wildcatter in the oil fields. After his return to Battle Creek he learned the painting and construction trade from his Uncle. He worked at Union Pump in the mechanical stamping division.  He was also a technician at Hastings Manufacturing. He worked at Battle Creek Country Club, HomeSpun Restaurant and finished out his career at the V. A. Medical Center where he was employed in the Nutrition Department for seven years.

Bill was a very hard worker and while employed full time, he still helped out mowing lawns, painting houses inside and out, maintained his Mother’s home, and helped out doing electrical work and painting at his family member’s homes and business’.  If his sisters needed anything, he was the first one there to help.  Bill said he was looking forward to “just lounging” but he could never sit still for long.  He was always tinkering on something and even built beautiful bird feeders that he delighted in giving to the family.  Bill enjoyed spending time outdoors in the summer and loved a sunny day on the golf course. He detested winter and the problems it caused with his rheumatoid arthritis. The joy of his life was his daughter Rachael and granddaughters Rayleigh and Ella.  A really good day was all about spending time with them. He had just purchased a Motorhome to spend time with his girlfriend, daughter and grandchildren. He enjoyed cooking and was known for his love of spicy foods. He played recreational softball when his children were little. He was a lifelong Detroit Tiger baseball fan and Kansas City Chiefs football fan.  And of course, was thrilled with a long-awaited super bowl win last year.  GO CHIEFS!  Bill loved his dogs, especially his former dogs Smoky, Beev and most recently his Mom’s dog Bella. He loved his sisters but always liked to act like they bothered and annoyed him. He had a bad habit of answering the phone with Whaaat! instead of hello, when his sisters were calling.

He is survived by his daughter, Rachael Story of Battle Creek, MI, sisters Renee’ (Dennis) Rupert of Hillsdale, MI, and Brenda Thornburg of Caledonia, MI. Grandchildren, Rayleigh Kimble and Gabriella Kimble, one niece and two nephews. Bill is deeply missed by his girlfriend and partner of many years Joyel Lester and her family. He will also be missed dearly by family members Angela King and her son Tony.   Bill will be missed by many of his childhood and adult friends and his coworkers at the VA Medical Center of Battle Creek, MI.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, Jimmie Story, mother, JoAnn Shaw and daughter, Lacey Story-Robbins. Arrangements by Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Interment will be at Fort Custer National Cemetery, date to be announced.