Wilford Clifford Cuty

Wilford Clifford "Wil" Cuty, I, passed away on April 2, 2025, in Midland, MI, at the age of 83. He was born on August 5, 1941, in Flint, MI, to Clifford George Cuty and Louise May (Seeley), and was later raised by his mother and stepfather, Homer Blake. He was a longtime resident of Twining, MI.
A proud graduate of Hale High School, Class of 1961, Wil enlisted in the United States Navy that same year. He served with distinction in VietNam and proved his dedication to his country for over three decades, retiring honorably in 1997 with the rank of Petty Officer First Class. Ever keen to improve his knowledge, Wil studied animal husbandry, aircraft mechanics, drug interdiction, law, and accounting at various times and institutions throughout his accomplished life, earning degrees and/or certificates in each. After his military retirement, Wil returned to the workforce, most recently working as a Security Supervisor for Securitas, which he did for several years, until service-related conditions in 2009 finally forced him to spend more time partaking in his hobbies.
Wil enjoyed nothing more than a beautiful drive with his most devoted pal, Keller. His past-times included his amateur radio station, call sign KC8EXV, which he humbly boasted would allow him to speak with friends several states, and sometimes even
countries, away. In his recent years, he spent a great deal of time and energy researching his ancestry, proudly discovering he was a descendent of Mayflower passenger John Howland. For Wil, family meant the world.
On July 23, 1994, Wilford married Elaine "Lainie" (Traubenkraut) Nichols in Whittemore, MI. Together they shared a blended and loving family. He is remembered by his children: Naida "Marie" (Roger) Becker of Coral, MI; Wilford C. Cuty II and Andrew I. Cuty of Twining, MI; Jessica M. (David) Castillo of Deckerville, MI; and Natalie Nichols and Victor Nichols of Kawkawlin, MI.
Wil is also survived by his siblings: Nora Limron of Flushing, MI; Sharon Ross of Washington Township, MI; Ruby (Patrick) Baranski of Crookston, MN; Jean (Earl "Fred") Longfellow of Rose City, MI; and Joan (Daniel) Older of Lecanto, FL, as well as
numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. A devoted grandfather to Carl Becker (Gennie), David Castillo (Kandy), Tyler Schmidt,
Albert Becker, Kenneth Becker, Desiree Castillo, and Abagail Becker, Wil's legacy continues through nine great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Lainie; his parents; stepfather Homer Blake; siblings Virginia, David, and Joseph Cuty; and brothers-in-law Gary Limron, Leon Drake, and Dale Ross.
Wilford's life of service and devotion will be fondly remembered, as will his quick wit and fondness for a good debate. Per Wil's wishes, he will be cremated and interred at Cedar Valley Cemetery in Twining, MI. A service commemorating his life, with full military honors, will be announced at a later date.