William "Bill" J. Candey, Jr., 91, of Traverse City passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, 2014 at French Manor Senior Living with his family at his side. Bill was born on August 6, 1922 in Lansing, Michigan to the late William J. and Ellen (Browning) Candey. After graduating from Holt High School, where he was active in many sports especially baseball, Bill played ball in the Detroit Tiger's farm system before joining the U.S. Navy. After serving in World War II he met Virginia "Gini" Bradley, saying "I fell in love with her at first sight." They were married on August 18, 1945 and recently celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary. They resided in Lansing until 1959 when Bill was transferred to Traverse City. He was a member of First Christian Church. Bill was a life time member of the Elks Lodge #323, a former Mason, he was a member of Michigan Sports Sages and co-owner of Fore Seasons Golf. Before moving to Traverse City Bill was very active in archery, shooting in National Tournaments in Wisconsin, Michigan and New Hampshire. He won the Grand Gold Medal in New Hampshire. An avid sports enthusiast he enjoyed all sports and was very involved with the Trojan Athletic Boosters. Bill was a salesman of athletic equipment for 35 years, he sold equipment to many schools and colleges throughout the Midwest. He adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bill is survived his loving wife, Gini, sons; William (Deb) Candey III, Scott Candey, Mark (Shelli) Candey, daughters-in-law, Cindy Candey and Marge Candey, a brother, Dick Candey, and his 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son Craig "Chet" Candey, a sister, Vera Davies and a sister-in-law, Elsie Candey.

Bill's family would to extend a heartfelt thank you to Pastor Brett Spaulding for his care and handling of Bill's and his family spiritual needs daily.

A memorial service honoring Bill will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, June 14, 2014 at First Christian Church, 3686 W. South Airport Rd., Traverse City, MI 49684. Pastor Brett Spaulding will officiate. Friends are welcome to visit starting at 11:00 a.m.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to First Christian Church.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Bill's family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .

The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.