Stanley Cheesebro

If there is one thing we will remember about Stanley Cheesebro it was the way he could make us laugh. It was easy to see that he loved life, especially when surrounded by his family. Stanley was blessed to spend the best years of his life with his true love by his side with whom he created so many priceless memories that will be lasting treasures for those he leaves behind. As his friends and family can attest Stanley loved spending an afternoon out on the links, and he had an unquenchable love for sweets. He was a blessing in the lives of all who were blessed to be within his reach.

The decade of the Roaring Twenties was a great time to be an American. Nestled within this colorful time was the year 1924 that boasted of several noteworthy events. This was the year that IBM was founded and that the Wrigley Building in Chicago was completed while the music industry was dominated by the sounds of George Gershwin. This was also a year to remember for a young family from Vicksburg, Michigan, as they were eagerly anticipating the birth of their new baby. Their wait was over on September 11th when their healthy baby boy made his arrival. Stanley was the youngest of three children born to his parents, Roy and Dottie (Baughman) Cheesebro, and was raised in the family home alongside his siblings, Clyde and Marie. Stanley attended local schools including Vicksburg High School where he played football.

Not long after graduating from high school in 1943, Stanley was called to serve his country during WWII. He was a soldier in the United States Army, and by the time he was discharged he had earned the rank of sergeant. In recognition of his service Stanley was awarded the Pacific Theater Service Medal, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one bronze star, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Army of Occupation Medal.

With his duty to his country fulfilled Stanley returned to his hometown and began working as a meat cutter for the A & P before settling in as a bread salesman for Schafers Bakeries.

While he was busy establishing his career, Stanley was delighted to meet the young woman who stole his heart. Her name was Helen Griffith, and the couple soon found themselves deeply in love. With a desire to build a life together Stanley and his sweetheart were married on September 24, 1950. Together they were blessed with four children: Steven, Cheryl, David, and James. As a father Stanley was actively involved in the lives of his children. He made it a priority to be at all of their school and sporting events and was always their biggest fan. Later in life when grandchildren joined their family Stanley faithfully attended their functions and activities. Although he was not one to be in the kitchen too often, he made the best scrambled eggs with bacon in them. In fact, this specialty was about the only thing he could make and was something his family always looked forward to.

Throughout his life Stanley was a man of many interests. His faith was something he cherished, and he was a member of Portage First United Methodist Church, now known as Pathfinder Church. During their retirement years Stanley and Helen did some traveling including to the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, and out West. For many years they attended an annual gathering of the Bushmasters, which was his Army unit. The destination was always different each year, but they always had a great time. When looking to relax, Stanley loved heading out for a game of golf, and he did so well into his sunset years. It comes as no surprise that he shot a 40 when he was 77 years old. Stanley was never one to be picky when it came to food as he enjoyed just about anything. Sweets were his favorite, and everyone knew not to be behind him in the buffet line! Stanley enjoyed listening to country music, and he was also a member of the Moose Lodge. He was a man who could find a use for just about anything - a true pioneer in the recycling movement. Stanley was especially proud of his extensive collection of lawnmowers, too. He was also an avid University of Michigan basketball and football and Detroit Tigers fan.

With a life that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Stanley Cheesbro brought so much joy to the world around him wherever he went. With his easygoing personality he was never one to let life get the better of him, taking everything in stride. Stanley was naturally funny, and with his contagious laughter and bright blue eyes he could brighten up the darkest of days. He will be deeply missed while the memories he leaves behind remain forever near and dear to the hearts of many.

Stanley Cheesebro died on Friday, May 18, 2012. Stanley’s family includes three children: Cheryl Cheesebro, of Portage; Dave Cheesebro, of Portage; Jim (Kathy) Cheesebro, of Portage; four grandchildren: Matt and Jenna Cheesebro; Autumnlyn and Tyler Cheesebro; One sister: Marie (Bud) Shinabarger, of Dayton, OH; and his aunt, Madge Baughman, of Parchment. Stanley was preceded in death by his wife, Helen; one son Steve; and one brother Clyde Cheesebro. The family will receive friends on Monday from 4-7 p.m. at the Life Story Funeral Home, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg (649-1697). A memorial service will be held on Monday at 7 p.m. at the same location. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission and/or Salvation Army. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a memory or sign the online guestbook.