William J. "Bill" Cannon

Saginaw, Michigan

Our loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2024, with his family at his side. At the age of 90 years. 

The son of the late James and Tillie (Srock) Cannon, Bill was born on August 13, 1933, in Gladstone, Michigan. He graduated from Gladstone High School with the class of 1951. Bill proudly served in the United States Army Air Corps as a Morse Code Interceptor, stationed in the Philippines during the Korean War. Upon his return, Bill attended Michigan State University (MSU) to obtain his undergraduate degree in Psychology. He was a proud member of the MSU State Singers and Music Fraternity. He was a School Psychologist for the Saginaw Intermediate School District, during which he decided to go back to MSU to earn his Masters Degree in Speech Pathology. He met Joyce Antonia Civello through a mutual friend of his and the pair would marry on May 5, 1962. They shared over 61 wonderful years together. Joyce preceded Bill in death on October 16, 2023. Bill continued as a School Psychologist with the Bay Arenac ISD, retiring after 20 years of loyal and dedicated service. Many students will fondly remember Bill as he taught an introductory Psychology class at Delta Community College, to the extent of sharing their appreciation and gratitude to his family. He was an active member of St. Francis de Sales Parish, St. Christopher Catholic Church, where he served in its choir, as an usher, reader, and Bill was a longstanding member of its Men’s Club. Bill was involved in his community as he once served on the Bridgeport Township Board, and at his passing he was the current President of the Public Library and serving on the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Bill had many passions throughout his life. His love for MSU Football and its Marching Band began during his college years as Bill would cheer and support his friends and fellow classmates. Bill would be found at the stadium from the warm-ups on the field, through the pre-game and half-time shows, until the post-game shows when the opposing teams’ Marching Band would perform. Bill would bring his family and loved ones to games to share the pride he had for MSU. Known for his dedication and passion for coaching youth baseball, he led the 7-11 Slurpee Sluggers to numerous championships. His love for the game extended beyond baseball as he found joy in watching fastpitch softball. Bill enjoyed playing tennis and was an avid golfer, recording his best 18-hole score of 71 at the age of 89. He volunteered for many years with the Saginaw District Golf Association and initiated the Senior Division, he served as a Rules Official and a Starter. His friends and colleagues will fondly remember him for starting the “Pick Your Pro” Fantasy Golf League starting every January going through May for over 40 years. Bill and Joyce were fans of the Detroit Tigers, and passionate supporters for their children and grandchildren as they never missed one of their sporting events. Above all, Bill cherished the time spent with his family and loved ones. 

Surviving are his children, Tony Cannon, Judi Lynn (Cannon) Potts, Dan Cannon; eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Besides his wife and his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his son, James Joseph Cannon. 

In accordance with Bill’s wishes, Anatomical Donation to Michigan State University’s Willed Body Program has taken place. A private memorial service will be planned for a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. Francis de Sales Parish, St. Christopher Catholic Church, 3945 Williamson Rd, Saginaw, MI 48601, or a charity of your choice.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted with W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd, Saginaw, MI 48603. Please share your condolences and memories with the family online at https://www.casefuneralhome.com .