William A McKinley, age 87 of Ada, MI, passed away peacefully with his daughter and one of his many adored caregivers by his side Tuesday, December 3, 2024, to be with his Savior. He will be dearly missed by his daughter, Melinda McKinley of Ada; brother-in-law, David Harlow of Monroe Falls, OH; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Robert (Marilynn) Whittler of Bradley, IL; cousin, Lois Carol Nycum of Freeport, IL; many nieces and nephews. William was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Nancy; his parents; sister, Mary Ellen Harlow; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Ellen (Gerald) Ponton. He was born in Illinois, the son of Fowler and Edith McKinley, and a cousin of President William McKinley.
William was a storyteller at heart, always keeping the listener in suspense wondering how each story would end. Throughout life, he enjoyed making people laugh, being kind and thoughtful, singing in church choirs, working with his hands on various projects, teaching how mechanical things work, developing creative solutions for almost anything, but most especially being a cherished and devoted husband and father.
His family wishes to thank the wonderful caregivers and staff of Gauthier Family Home Care and Corewell Health Hospice for their loving and gentle care. Following William’s wishes cremation took place. A Celebration of his life will be held on 2pm on December 16, 2024, with visitation one hour prior to the service in the Chapel on Orange St. at Cascade Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Memorial contributions may be made to Cascade Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 2829 Thornapple River Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, or the Muscular Dystrophy Association.