William Joseph Watts, 73, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2018, at Medilodge Nursing and Rehabilitation in Holland. He was born May 14, 1944. As an infant he was adopted by Joe and Thelma Watts.
William was a proud member of the United States Navy and he retired from the General Electric Company. At a later age, William traveled in Texas to find his biological family, his parents preceded him in death.
William is survived by his brother James (Janet) Rasmusen; his sisters, Wilma Brabon of Plainwell, and Carolyn Bair of South Haven; a half-brother Larry (Linda) Wilcox of Lawrence. Surviving family members in Texas are DG Volk, William Volk, Michael Volk, Denny Volk and sister Paula.
William is also survived by his daughter, Samantha (Chris) Brent; step-daughter Denise DeMond and Rebecca Laarman; his grandchildren, Christopher, Travis, Katie, Autumn, Sierra, Zachary, Danielle, Kaleb, Jayden, Shelby, Hunter, Emma, Cassie and Sean Paul; and many nieces and nephews.
William was preceded in death by his son William Watts Jr. and step-daughter Melissa Laarman. His step-grandson, Hunter, was very special to Bill and he did so many things for him right up until the end. Also special friends, Ken and Elizabeth Remington.
A visitation to honor William Watts will be Tuesday, Jan. 9, at Chappell Funeral Home, from 10 to 11 a.m., with the service at 11 a.m.
Chappell Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. An online guest registry can be found by visiting www.chappellfuneralhome.com.
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