William "Bill" Cullen McKee

William Cullen McKee, 83, passed away October 13, 2014. Services will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior at Johnston Evangelical Free Church, 9901 NW 62nd Ave. in Johnston, Iowa.

Bill was born on January 6, 1931 in Madison County, IA to Gerald and Mabel (Thomas) McKee. He was number 5 of 11 children and grew up in the Great Depression Era. At the age of 17 he enlisted in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged a year later in San Diego, CA. He married Inez Kautz on December 10, 1950 in Creston, IA and celebrated 57 years of marriage before she passed away. For 31 years the couple made a living farming in the Creston and Orient area while raising their family. He had the patience to teach 3 daughters and a son about farm life, including how to drive tractors, how to care for animals, and he modeled a work ethic that was renowned in his family. In 1981 they started a new course of life by moving to Mesa, AZ where they owned and operated Tri City Printing until retirement. Bill and Inez joined the Elks Lodge where they spent countless hours over the next 23 years volunteering their time and talents. Bill held the office of Exalted Ruler at the local level, District Deputy at the national level, and Vice President of the state of Arizona. The friendships and memories they made during these years were very special. In 2004 they returned to Iowa to be closer to family.

Bill is survived by his children, Becky (Michael) Williams of Marlton, NJ, Cynthia Sprouse of Brea, CA, Sonya (Scott) Dettmann of Grimes, IA and David (Missy) McKee of Williamsville, NY; 8 grandchildren: Chris (Jen) Williams, Josh Williams (Fiance’ Brittany Mills), Taylor Sprouse, Tyler Dettmann, Travis (Linda) Dettmann, Trevor (Natalie) Dettmann, Billie McKee, and Josh Lemke; great-grandchildren: Julianna and Gabrielle Williams and Janae Sprouse; and 8 siblings. He was preceded in death by his wife Inez on October 26, 2007; brothers, Francis (Joe) and Roger McKee; and his parents.

A memorial has been established. Condolences may be expressed online at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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