Willard Henry Kay

Willard Henry Kay, 80, of Gobles and formerly of Perrinton, Michigan, passed away Friday, January 20, 2023, at his home. To his friends and family, he was known as Bill, Billy, Dad, Butch, or Grandpa Kay.

He was born March 11, 1942, son to the late Willard M. Kay and Freda (Grabelowski) Kay.

Bill was a true car enthusiast and loved many of the different classics. This also extended to his love for auto racing. He possessed great talent in woodworking and had an eye for fine detail; he could build just about anything. In addition to his family, Bill had a special spot in his heart for the many cats to whom he provided a loving home to over the years.

On Nov 23, 1963, Bill married Mary "Diane" Kay. who preceded him in death in 2007. He spent his last years with his close companion, Deborah Adkins.

Bill is survived by his two daughters, Donna (Jerry) Glasscock of Gulliver, MI and Lori (Chris) Brown of Ann Arbor, MI; his significant other, Deb Adkins of Gobles; five grandchildren, Valarie (Michael) DeCarolis, Phillip Colley, Jake Colley, Alex Brown and Jessica Brown; and one great-granddaughter, Oliva DeCarolis.

Bill was preceded in death by his sisters, Kay and Audrey.

Mass of Christian burial will be held Thursday, January 26, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary Catholic Church, Paw Paw, with Rev. Fr. Alan P. Jorgensen officiating. Bill will be laid to rest beside Diane at Payne Cemetery in Perrinton, Michigan.