Albert 'Bill' Herald

Albert W. 'Bill' Herald 83 of Traverse City died at his home surrounded by his family. He passed away due to complications from a major stroke.

Bill was born in the family farm house on 4 mile and Hammond Road, the son of Wilhelmina (Courtade) and Willard Herald. His grandparents, Albert and Nellie Courtade were born in the same farm house. He spent most of his childhood there and attended the original Courtade School at Hammond and High Lake Road.

After his marriage on July 7, 1947 to Florence (Thayer) also of 4 Mile Rd.; they purchased an adjoining farm house on Four Mile Rd.

Bill and Florence raised two children, Tom (Sally) Herald and Sue Ann Schaub.

Bill worked at Michigan Bell Telephone Co., for thirty-two years. In that time he made many friendships and looked forward to the once a month breakfasts with the guys. After retirement he worked at the Grand Traverse Resort for thirteen summers planting most of the trees you see on their properties today. Bill and Florence wintered in Lady Lake Florida for thirteen winters.

Bill and Florence traveled 47 of the continental United States. He loved the Bad Lands. Bill had many hobbies and interests. He helped start the Grand Mounted Patrol (now known as G.T. Reserves). He helped start the East Bay Volunteer Fire and Rescue, Dept. #9. He also taught 4-H gun safety and enjoyed snowmobiling, hunting, gaming and Nascar.

Late in life he most enjoyed going to Roy's in the a.m. and chatting with the Hentschel boys, bus drivers, and customers.

Bill was preceded in death by his daughter, Sue Ann Schaub.

He is survived by his wife, Florence of 64 years, son Thomas (Sally) Herald, sisters, Pat Grouleau and Judy Stites, Five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will be forth coming. Any donations should be made to Munson Hospice. Bill's family wishes to thank the caring staff at Munson Hospice. Please visit Bill's webpage at www.lifestorynet.com to sign the online guest book and share a message or memory with his family. The family chose Life Story Funeral Home, Traverse City to handle the cremation arrangements.