Bill M. Standifer

Bill M. Standifer, age 88, of Monroe, passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025, at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital. Born December 21, 1936, in Harrogate, TN, Bill was the son of the late Frank and Minnie (Farmer) Standifer. He attended Monroe High School and served his country during the Vietnam Era from June 6, 1960 to May 16, 1962. While serving in the U.S. Army, Bill was stationed in Germany where he served in the Military Police. On February 19, 1966, Bill married his best friend and the love of his life, the former Dianna J. Hensley, in Monroe, Michigan. A Certified Master Mechanic, Bill was employed by Harry May Chevrolet and Groulx Oldsmobile auto dealerships for most of his career, retiring at the age of 62. A devoted Detroit Lions football fan and proud member of Monroe Area Street Rods, Bill also found joy in the simple things-caring for his cars, keeping his home and yard in pristine condition, and lending a helping hand wherever it was needed. Known for his humor and goofiness, Bill often made everyone laugh with his missing-finger ketchup trick. A skilled mechanic, he never hesitated to use his talents to help others. After proudly serving his country, he continued to serve his community as a member of Monroe VFW Post 1138, honoring fellow servicemen and women with dignity and respect as part of its Ritual Team. Bill will be remembered for his warm smile, quick wit, and selflessness. Known for his precision and craftsmanship, he excelled in many trades and took satisfaction in ensuring every task was done to perfection. Most of all, he loved teasing and joking with his grandchildren, never missing a chance to share a laugh with them. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dianna; three children, Debra Stevens of Monroe, Denise (Peter) Lietaert of Monroe, and Donald Standifer of St. Petersburg, FL; five siblings, Joyce Hellenberg of Glasgow, KY, Frankie Kirkenbush of Monroe, Reba (Michael) Maloney of Gallatin, TN, Colin (Edie) Standifer of Dayton, OH, and John Standifer of Monroe; nine grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by two sisters, Yvonne Nocella and Almira "Sis" Sortor, and one brother, Gary Standifer. Family and friends may visit from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at Bacarella Funeral Home, where services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday. Rev. Jason Aaron, pastor of Outpost Community Church, will officiate. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park, with military honors provided by Bill's comrades of the Monroe VFW Post 1138 Ritual Team. For those wishing to make a memorial contribution, the family encourages donations to Monroe VFW Post 1138. To his family, Bill leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and strength. To his community, he leaves the memory of a man who lived with integrity, generosity, and pride. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who were blessed to know him. Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.bacarellafuneralhome.com.