Willard Dean Etheridge, age 84 of Ludington, MI died unexpectedly Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI. He was born August 10, 1932 in St. Louis, MI, son of the late Fred Etheridge & Helen (Risk) LaBonville. Willard was a graduate of St. Louis High School. He served our country as a member of the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict from 1949 until his honorable discharge in 1952. Willard married Evelyn J. Robinson on July 19, 1954 in St. Louis, MI. He was employed as a production superintendent at Martin Marietta Magnesia Specialties of Eastlake until his retirement.

He is survived by his wife, Evelyn Etheridge; 1 daughter & son-in-law: Susan & Dennis Budde; 2 sons & daughters-in-law, Dean & Janet Etheridge and Russell & Jennifer Etheridge; 1 brother & sister-in-law, Joe & Cheryl Etheridge; 1 sister & brother-in-law, Faith & Elmer Freeman and 6 grandchildren, Nathan, Stephen, Amanda, Paige, Brooke and Derek Etheridge. Nieces and nephews also survive him

In addition to his mother and father, Willard was preceded in death by his step-father, Arthur LaBonville; 2 sons, Randall and Douglas Etheridge and 2 brothers, Robert Etheridge and Abe LaBonville.

Cremation has taken place and a private family service will take place at a later date.

The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.