William John "Bill" Kerr

William John "Bill" Kerr, 62, of Midland, died unexpectedly early Thursday morning, Oct. 20, 2016 as a result of injuries sustained in a motorcycle deer accident in Bay County. Bill was born May 27, 1954 in Midland, son of the late Arthur and Irene Louise (Mikac) Kerr. He attended schools in Midland and graduated from Midland High School and also attended Delta College and their Police Academy. He married the former Darlene Kershner May 15, 1993 in Midland. Darlene was the love of Bill's life to the extent that words could not describe. They spent 23 years together, traveling all over the world enjoying every moment. He served with the U.S. Army as a Military Police Officer and was a dog handler. Bill was a Midland City Police Officer, retiring in May of 2002 after 23 years of service. During that time, Bill gave his all to being the best police officer and role model. He served as union president and was very proud of his profession. As proof of the amazing man he was, Bill was endowed with the Gerstacker Award as the Police Officer of the Year. He was also given the John Dankert Memorial Loyalty Award in 2001 for his dedicated and uncompromised leadership. He was a former member of the Midland Jaycees, an active member of the Midland American Legion Berryhill Post #165 and a passionate member of the Blue Knights and Patriot Guard. In his spirit of giving, he was a major contributor to the Ernie Wallace Blood Bank. Bill enjoyed woodworking, riding his motorcycle and spending time with his family and grandchildren. Many wonderful vacations were taken together as a family and many memories were made. His grandchildren were his life and he was the best Papa. Bill had an infectious laugh and could always be heard whistling. His patience and desire to serve others is what made him a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Not enough can be said about such a genuine man.

Bill is survived by his wife, Darlene; his children, Theresa (Robert) Drysdale, Michael Kerr, Keith Bourbonnais, Kelly Bourbonnais and Kristia (James) Zizzo; one brother, Lou (Nancy) Kerr; one sister, Becky (Alan) Dana; grandchildren, Madison Kerr, Frasier Drysdale and John Drysdale; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by one niece, April Kerr; and a great-nephew, Maxwell Kerr.

Funeral services for Bill will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 24, 2016 at Memorial Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Dr. Wallace H. Mayton III will officiate with burial in Midland City Cemetery. Bill's family will receive friends at the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Home, 1200 W. Wheeler St. on Sunday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. and at the church on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Wounded Warrior Project or the National Law Enforcement Officer's Memorial Foundation. Military honors will be presented by the U.S. Army.