William Sly

William Porter “Bill” Sly died Friday morning, April 5, 2024, from the effects of lymphoma (cancer).

Bill was born May 26, 1936, to Harlow and Ethel Shaw Sly, the second of four children in the farming communities of Vantown and Dansville, Michigan.  Bill graduated General Motors Institute and University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.  He worked in Decatur for Caterpillar Inc. for 32 years, taking early retirement at the age of 56.  

Bill met Ethel Knop when he was a patient in the hospital shortly after moving to Decatur.  They eloped in 1962 and were married over 61 years.  Bill was involved as a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers for 50+ years, Golden K Kiwanis, Barbershop Harmony Society, Greater Decatur Chorale, Boy Scouts of America, Junior Achievement, and Holy Cross Lutheran Church for over 30 years having served as the general foreman of the expansion of the church building.  Bill’s hobbies included riding motorcycles, singing, dancing with his wife, tinkering in his garage shop, volunteering with many community groups, and giving his help to anyone who needed it.

Bill and Ethel had three children; K. Lyn Sly (Manley Mallard), Paul (Sharon) Sly, and Jenny (Scott) Smith.  Grandchildren he loved are William Spencer Mallard, Marion Sly Mallard, Samuel Edgar Sly, and Steven Edward Smith. His wife and son preceded him in death and welcomed him into the Lord’s care.

Arrangements are pending for a gathering in a few weeks in Decatur to share memories of all three Slys – Bill Sly, Ethel Sly, and Paul Sly.  The Sly family and friends are grateful for love and support in this time.