Richard L. Stanley

Richard L. Stanley, age 81 of West Branch, passed away at his home August 10, 2005. Mr. Stanley was born February 23, 1924 in Flint. On December 14, 1942, at the age of 18, he went to Detroit to enlist in the Marine Corp. to serve duration years in WWII. Mr. Stanley served in WWII from December 14, 1942 to November 25, 1945 without any leave time. During his service, he was in four out of five landings. He was present for New Guinea, New Britain, Peleliu, and Okenowa. For his service, he received the following medals and honors: Bronze Star Medal with Combat V, Purple Heart for being wounded September 19, 1944 in Peleiu, WWII Victory Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with Combat Stars, and Navy Occupation Service Medal with Asia Clasp, Potential Unit Citation Ribbon with Bronze Star, Combat Action Ribbon and Honorable Service Discharge Button, Sharp Shooter, Philippine Ribbon with 1 Bronze Star, and a Presidential Unit Citation Philippine. When he returned to Flint, he resumed his career at Michigan Bell Telephone and married Imogene (Avery) Stanley on June 22, 1946. He is survived by his wife, Imogene Stanley of West Branch; his son Gary Stanley of Flint; his daughter Kathy Finlayson-Stanley of West Branch; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and special niece Teresa Mueller and her family of Indiana. Mr Stanley was an active member of the West Branch VFW Post #3775. There are four generations in Mr. Stanley's family who have served in the military. His father, Willis Stanley, served in WWI, his brother, Herald Stanley, served in WWII in the same Marine Division with Mr. Stanley; his son, Gary Stanley, who served in Vietnam; his grandson, Jeremy Scherrer, who served during peacetime; and another grandson, Adam Stanley, who currently served in the Army Reserve. Mr. Stanley lived a great life. He enjoyed golfing during his retirement and spending time with his wife and family. He is truly missed by his family. Visitation at the Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch will begin on Friday, August 12, 2005 from 2-4 P.M. and 6-9 P.M. The Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, August 13, 2005 at the funeral home. Rev. Dan Stoneback will officate. Burial will be held at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday at Houghton Lake Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to Hospice of Helping Hands, 335 E. Houghton Ave., West Branch, MI. 48661