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William Louis Tacchella, age 85, of Sturgis, went to be home with his dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday morning, December 7, 2024, at Thurston Woods Village in Sturgis.
He was born July 12, 1939, in Oakland, California, son of the late Louis and Carmen (Rogers) Tacchella. He spent his childhood in Lafayette, California where he graduated from Acalanes High School. He has lived in Sturgis since 1982, coming from California.
On December 21, 1963, he married Bette N. “Betsy” Brown in Lawrence, Kansas. Together, they loved to study the Bible, spend time with friends and family, and enjoy outdoor adventures. His dear wife preceded him in death on September 16, 2021.
Bill was proud to have served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard, stationed for two years off the coast of Northern California in Eureka.
Bill retired from Kirsch Company in Sturgis, following several decades in sales and product management, with a creative eye towards product development. Following his retirement, he established, owned, and operated Creative Interiors, a window coverings business, in Sturgis for 25 years. He loved meeting new people and building relationships with his customers.
He was a member of Radiant Life Church in Sturgis. He held a deep love for the Word, studying and teaching the Bible. He was a cheerful greeter, bringing a warm welcome to all, and enjoyed being a part of a Saturday morning men’s Bible study group.
Bill had a deep heart and passion for mentoring others, especially young men, walking alongside and encouraging them in ways of the Lord. He was joyful and lighthearted and made friends everywhere he went. He loved family time, the outdoors, enjoying kayaking, hiking and camping, and he was also a talented woodworker.
He is survived by daughters: Kim (John) Hapner of Syracuse, Indiana and Laurie Tacchella of Grand Rapids; son: Mike (Katie) Tacchella of Byron Center, Michigan; grandchildren: Erika (Matt) McGhee, Laura (Taylor) Davis, Josh Hapner, Krista Hapner, Matt (Livia) Hapner, Alex Bascom, Zac (Cassidy) Bascom, Jacob Tacchella and Livy Tacchella; great grandchildren: Myra McGhee, Aidan McGhee, Leah McGhee, Esme Davis, Isla Davis, Anya Davis and Elliot Hapner, and beloved significant other: Jackie Miller of Sturgis.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and infant sister.
In honoring his wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 on Monday, December 23rd at Radiant Life Church in Sturgis where a celebration of a life well lived will immediately follow the visitation at 2:00 P.M. Close family friend Rod Chupp will officiate.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be appreciated to Thurston Woods Village Staff Appreciation Fund, 307 N. Franks Ave., Sturgis, MI 49091.
We encourage relatives and friends to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
