Wilfred Godfrey

Wilfred (Bill) Godfrey Kalamazoo Bill Godfrey, age 94 died July 12, 2010 in Kalamazoo . He was born May 2, 1916 in Hillsdale County, the son of Clyde and Maribel (Hergert) Godfrey on a farm that remains in the Godfrey family. Formerly of Okemos, MI., Bill was known for his lifelong commitment to peace and justice issues and was involved in pacifist work during World War II and all wars that have followed. In March of 1943, Bill was married to his wife, Lucille (Tompkins) Godfrey. He was Chief of Examinations for the Civil Service Dept for the State of Michigan for 38 years. He also was a member of Lansing Area Council of Churches, Okemos Kiwanis Club, Lansing Central Methodist Church , Okemos Community Church and most recently, Skyridge Church of the Brethren. Bill and Lucille were members of many peace groups in the Lansing area. Bill was a passionate gardener and an avid lover of birds. He taught Sunday School for 35 years. In his retirement, he enjoyed raising and training his beloved yellow Labrador , Betsy for 13 years. He also prepared tax returns for the poor and elderly for nearly 20 years. Together with his wife Lucille, who survives, Bill raised four children who will miss him greatly. Surviving are three daughters, Anne (Larry) Peretti of Charlotte, NC, Lynn (Ralph) Heiden of Okemos, MI, and Jane (Pete) Givens of Portage, MI.; a son David (Lindsay Wentz) Godfrey of Kirkland, WA.; six grandchildren, Rob O'Brien, Lesley and Jim Sorenson, Katie Givens (Haddon) Kime, Dan Givens, and Eric Godfrey; two great grandchildren, Angelina Peretti and Abigail Givens Kime. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 24, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at Skyridge Church of the Brethren of Kalamazoo, 394 S. Drake Rd. In lieu of flowers please donate food to your local food pantry in memory of Bill. Memorial contributions may also be made to Skyridge Church of the Brethren Memorial Fund. Arrangements entrusted to: WHITLEY MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 330 North Westnedge Ave. (269) 488-2401 www.whitleymemorialfuneralhome.com