William R. Firman

William R. Firman, 90 of Gaylord and formerly of Vanderbilt, passed away on Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at McReynolds Hall.

Born on June 15, 1926 in Goodrich, Michigan, Bill was the son of Ralph and Theresa (Bump) Firman.

Bill was a longtime heavy equipment operator and farmer. He enjoyed farming and was an avid snowmobiler.  He attended Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Vanderbilt and a former member of First Baptist Church of Flushing, MI.  A loving husband, father and grandfather, Bill enjoyed spending time with his family and always looked forward to family get togethers.

Bill and his first wife, Gwendolyn were married for 39 years and raised four sons.  She preceded him in death in 1984.

In 1985 Bill married Mary Alice (Brown) Parks.  They lived in Flushing before moving to Charlevoix and later to Vanderbilt.  Most recently Bill lived in Gaylord.

Bill is survived by his wife, Mary Alice Firman; sons, David (Gail) Firman of Flushing, Don (Sue) Firman of West Branch, Doug (Paula) Firman of Casco Twp. and Dennis (Tammy) Firman of Petoskey; step children, Russell (Paula) Parks of Flushing, Kelly (Halsey) Telling of Flushing and Korey (Kelly) Parks of South Lyon; a step daughter –in-law, Carol (Mike) Walczak of Flushing; 8 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; 11 step grandchildren and 4 step great grandchildren .  He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Gwendolyn Firman; a grandson, Daniel Firman; a sister, Evelyn Warner and a step son, Richard Parks.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, October 8, 2016 at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Vanderbilt where the family will visit with friends beginning at 9:30 AM.  Interment will be at Flushing City Cemetery in Flushing.

Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to the charity of their choice.  Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com