TRAVERSE CITY — William R. "Bill" Courson, 88, of Traverse City, died Monday morning, June 20, 2011, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 10, 1923, in his native community of Traverse City, he was the son of the late William Michael and Emma Rose (Hanslovsky) Courson. On March 16, 1946, at Central United Methodist Church, he married the love of his life, the former Louise Gee. They enjoyed nearly 46 years of togetherness until Louise's death on May 26, 1992. A proud veteran, Bill faithfully served his country with the United States Army during World War II. He was a member of the American Legion Post 35, the VFW Cherryland Post 2780 and was a dedicated member of the VFW Honor Guard. Like many, he truly cherished honoring his fallen comrades.Bill retired as a switchman from Michigan Bell Telephone after working nearly 42 years. He was a member of the Telephone Pioneers and the Grand Traverse Historical Society. He also was a member of the First Congregational Church, where for over 30 years Bill helped prepare the church newsletter, "Crossway Connection" for mailing. Bill also served on the Churchside Village board. He was always reaching out to those in need.Bill relished his longtime association with the Boy Scouts of America-Scenic Trails Council, where he earned the Order of the Arrow. He was a proud grandfather when his grandsons, Mike and Patrick, each achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.Bill would often be found having coffee with his buddies at Round's, Oleson's or Sladek's. Their conversations encompassed the history of Traverse City and the bustling community it has become, as well as current world affairs. They always concluded the coffee hour by flipping a coin to see who would buy.Most importantly, Bill will be fondly remembered as a gentle man who loved his family dearly. He is survived by his children, Mary Courson, Dick Courson and James Courson, all of Traverse City; three grandchildren, Mike, Patrick and Sean; along with nieces and nephews.In addition to his wife, Bill was also preceded in death by two brothers, David and Robert "Bob" Courson; and nephew, Bob Gee. Friends may call at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 28, 2011, from 2 to 5 p.m., where the Courson family will receive friends. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, June 29, 2011, at 1 p.m., with the Rev. Dr. Gary Hogue officiating. Graveside services will follow at Oakwood Cemetery with full military honors under the auspices of the American Legion Post 35 and the Cherryland VFW Post 2780. In remembrance of Bill, memorials may be directed to the American Legion Post #35 or to the History Center of Traverse City. Envelopes may be obtained at the funeral home.Kindly share your memories with the family on their online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com . Arrangements were made with the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.