William Thomas Ikola

William ‘Bill’ Thomas Ikola, 73, of St. Joseph, MI, passed away on Saturday, March 25, 2017. Per Bill’s request, cremation has taken place and there will be no services held. Memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of Southwest Michigan. Those wishing to sign Bill’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Bill was born on September 3, 1943, in Benton Harbor, MI, to Jake and Margaret Ikola. He graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1961 and joined the U. S. Navy.  He proudly served on the USS Saratoga from 1962-1964 and in the US Naval Reserve from 1964-1966. On February 17, 1971, he married Cynthia Krugler. A machinist by trade, Bill worked at Advanced Products until his retirement. He was also a lover of music and an accomplished drummer who played with several local bands in the 1960’s and 70’s. Bill and Cynthia spent time every year at Sleeping Bear Dunes kayaking and enjoying the great outdoors. Bill is survived by his sons, Michael (Tracy) Ikola and Joseph (Jan) Krugler; grandchildren, Jake and Sara Ikola and Calina and Joseph. (Cassie) Krugler, Jr.; and great-grandchildren Karisma and Angelee Cunningham and Kyler, Raylon, and Iley Krugler He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Cynthia; and grandson, Zachary Ikola.