William E. Wallace

William passed away peacefully on September 1, 2024, at his home in Plainwell. 

He was born June 26, 1941, in Kalamazoo, MI, to Elton and Agnes (Hansen) Wallace. William graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1960 and married his long-time sweetheart, Merry Burling on September 8, 1962, in Kalamazoo. He worked for the City of Kalamazoo Parks Dept until the early 1970’s then began his career as a photo engraver at Michigan Colorplate until his retirement in 2004 from Hughes Engraving in Plainwell. 

In his spare time William enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and following NASCAR. He spent many years traveling to deer camp in Big Bay, MI with his hunting buddies and watching the NASCAR Cup Series cheering on his favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt. 

Surviving are his children, Deborah (Matthew) Hunt and Gary Wallace; grandchildren, Travis (Krista Lapham) Wallace, Shelby Wallace, Megan Hunt and Andrew (Cammie) Hunt; great-grandchildren, Thatcher and Saylah Wallace, Gianna and Lorenna Gonzalez with another great-grandson due in November who he was looking forward to meeting; sisters-in-law, Elaine and Sandy Wallace along with several niece and nephews and his special hunting buddies, Aaron Whyment and Chad Swinehart. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Merry; parents; brothers, Rexford, Eldon, Jack and Dennis and daughter-in-law, Anne Wallace. 

According to his wishes cremation has taken place and there will be no public visitation or funeral service. 

Memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to the Wounded Warrior Project may be directed to Deborah Hunt, PO Box 253, Plainwell, MI 49080, so the family can express their gratitude for your donation. 

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.