William Stiff Jr.

STIFF, William Gilbert, Jr. - Age 79, of Fenton, died Wednesday, October 21, 2021.  A graveside service will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, November 6, 2021 at Fairview Cemetery in Linden.  In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to a charity of your choice.

Bill was born August 8, 1942 in Linden, the son of William Gilbert Stiff, Sr. and Mildred Mary Parks.  He was a 1960 graduate of Linden High School and received a Bachelor's in Arts and Science from the University of Michigan.  He was an Eagle Scout.  He married Laura J. Cook May 21, 1965 in Flint and she preceded him in death October 26, 1989.  He had resided in Fenton since 1975 coming from Flint/Linden.  Bill had been a teacher at numerous schools including Holly, Byron, and Flint.  He had also owned and operated Stiff's Gym in Fenton.  He was an alternate in the U.S. Olympic Team in Weight Lifting in 1972 and 1980.  He was the Chairman of the Flint Olympian Games Weight Lifting for 61 years.  Bill was a coach and trainer of numerous state, national and world champions in several sports.  He enjoyed listening and participating in music, reading, and oil painting.

Surviving are: his fiancee', Sharon Helmer of Clarkston; son, William Gilbert Stiff III (Nichole) of Grand Blanc; daughter, Shanda Richardson (John) of Black Mountain, NC; grandchildren, Anais, Ainsley (Michael), Emily, and Laura James; great grandchildren, Jax, Jayce, Emmery, and Rivers; brother, Michael Stiff (Anne) of Indiana; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Harold Hoose and John Stiff; sisters, Delores Wallace, Jo Anne Deville, and Marjorie Leuneberg.  Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com.