Fred M. Woodward

Fred M. Woodward, 83, of Stevensville, MI passed away Wednesday, July 15, 2015 at Hanson Hospice Center. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Monday, July 20, 2015 at 10 A.M. at Scottdale United Methodist Church, 4271 Scottdale Rd., St. Joseph, with Pastor Terry Schneider officiating. Friends may visit on Sunday, July 19, 2015 from 1 PM until 3 PM at Starks and Menchinger Chapel and Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Inurnment will take place at North Shore Memory Gardens at 1 PM on July 20, 2015. Memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA of Southwest Michigan or the Wounded Warrior Project. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com Fred was born on November 11, 1931 in Benton Harbor, MI to Glen and Flora (Miller) Woodward. On August 28, 1954 Fred married the love of his life, Virginia “Ginny” Kemler. They were happily married for nearly 61 years. Fred served in the Army during the Korean War, and was a proud member of the Korean War Veterans and VFW. He attended Michigan State University and was a graduate of Western Michigan University. Fred worked for over 35 years for State Farm Insurance. One of his favorite hobbies was traveling to dog shows with their champion boxer dogs. He also enjoyed watching sports, especially U of M football, with his grandson, son-in-law, and nephews. Fred loved his family and friends dearly. His gentle good humor will be missed by all of those who knew him. Fred is survived by his wife, Ginny; daughter Beth (Richard) Blighton of Benton Harbor; grandson, Cody Blighton; nephews, David (Lori) and Donald (Joyce) Divis; niece, Dianne Sue (Bill) Hillman, and his much-loved dog Gina. Fred was preceded by his parents, his sister, Ruth Glenna Divis, and brother-in-law, Irwin Divis.