Arthur Staton Jr., 93, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016, at his family farm with his loving children present.
Art had three brothers and four sisters, he being the youngest and only surviving of the eight children. Art was born on an Iowa farm to Arthur and Myrtle Alice Staton, where he was raised during The Great Depression and developed a work ethic that would drive him his entire life.
During World War II, Art refused an agricultural exemption and joined the Army Air Forces to serve his country. He was a radio operator (nicknamed "Static") in a B17 and a prisoner of war in Germany. After the war, he made use of the GI Bill to become the first in his family to attend college, receiving both his bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Iowa and his law degree from the University of Michigan in four and half years. He devoted himself to his law practice for more than 60 years, representing the City of Kalamazoo, Western Michigan University, Alamo Township, The Upjohn Company and many others.
Arthur enjoyed a vibrant intellectual life, marked by his great admiration for President Abraham Lincoln, hunger for knowledge, and interest in science, history, politics and law. His family and friends will miss learning from him and losing debates to him. Throughout his 93 years, Art never stopped challenging himself mentally, physically or spiritually. The many chapters of his life will be remembered through the stories he so energetically told.
Arthur is preceded in passing by his wife, Elisabeth "Betty" Staton. Betty and Art met at the University of Michigan law library, raised five children, and loved watching their 10 grandchildren grow up visiting the farm.
Art is survived by his children, Chip and wife Karen, Mike and wife Amy, Andy and wife Ann, Beth and husband John Turkaly and Bill and wife Grace; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Visitation is Friday, Dec. 9, at 4 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Allegan with a memorial service to follow at 5 p.m., Pastor Robert Lynch officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Arthur's memory to St. Jude Children's Hospital, American Red Cross or Wings of Hope Hospice.
Arrangements are being provided by Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, www.gordenfuneral.com.
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