William I. Denemy

William I. Denemy started his journey to the spirit world on May 13, 2023. He passed peacefully in his sleep at Independence Village in Petoskey, MI.  He was 90 years old. 

He was born April 3, 1933 in Charlevoix, Michigan, to Isaac William Denemy (deceased T. SGT. KIA) and Clara Denemy (Loonesfoot-deceased).  He leaves behind his beloved wife of 70 years Patricia (Mort) Denemy who was by his side and helped him pass in peace; his daughter Judy Smith (husband Greg Smith deceased); son William A Denemy (wife Natalie Denemy deceased); daughter Joanie Denemy; son Brian (wife Susan) Denemy; and Terri Denemy (husband Jerry Postema). He was blessed with 4 grandchildren Michael Denemy, Justin Denemy, Joey Denemy, and Margaret Feil; 2 great-grandchildren William and Chloe Feil; and his nieces and nephews, Karen, Kathy, Ronald, John Jr., and Carrie Lyn.

William was preceded in death by his parents; his brother John “Jack” Denemy, Sr.; sister, Mary Theresa; and his nephew Donald Dean Denemy.

He was a devoted husband and father. His family was the most important thing in his life and their needs always surpassed his wants. His caring actions and sacrifices were without limit. He was respected and loved deeply.

He spent the majority of his working career with the Michigan State Police. He was a member of their very first scuba diving team. After 33 years of State service Inspector Denemy retired as the Assistant Division Commander Motor Carrier Division and his Badge number was 1. After retirement he worked as a security officer, Transportation Director for the Stanton School system, appointed to the LTBB Gaming and Regulatory Commission, served one Term as the Vice Chair for the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, and was later appointed to the LTBB Tribal Court as an Appellate Judge.

He was very athletic and excelled in high school sports attending both Petoskey and Charlevoix School systems. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling, golf, softball, and all other sports encouraging and coaching his children along their way.  God and family was very important to him. He was a member of St Francis Catholic church and a lifetime member of Knight of Columbus.He was a die-hard Michigan Fan and held season tickets up until his death. Go Blue!

Those wishing to make a donation in William's memory are asked to consider a charity of your choice.

A visitation for William will be at Stone Funeral Home on May 19, 2023, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A memorial mass will be officiated by Father Greg McCallum on May 20, 2023, at 10:30 AM at the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church and visitation will begin at 9:30 AM.

Arrangements are in the care of Stone Funeral Home, Inc. of Petoskey, Michigan.

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