Stanton D. Needles

Stanton D. Needles, 75, of St. Joseph, passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, May 8, 2007. Stan was born January 18, 1932 in Warren City, Iowa to Arthur Pearl “Pete” & Nora Iris (Gray) Needles. Stan served his country proudly during the Korean War in the U.S. Navy from 1949 until 1955. Stan served aboard the USS Agawam and also the USS PCEC 877. In 1955 Stan married Helen O. Meyer and they were happily married for 52 years. Stan worked for Clark Equipment Company in Benton Harbor until his retirement in 1985 as a District Sales Manager. Stan enjoyed many hobbies but none as much as working on his boat and spending time with his boating family at “Gilligan’s Island” at the old Wesner’s Marina. Stan also loved to travel with his wife Helen in their motor home and spending the winter in Texas at Fun-N-Sun Park with their friends. Stan also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and sharing in their interests. Stan was a very loving Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. He will be deeply missed by all. Stan is survived by his beloved wife Helen O. Needles, son Doug (Patty) Needles, daughter Marcie (Kenton McAndrew) Needles, son Don (Kathy) Needles. Grandchildren-Michael Fellner, Rachael Fellner, Steven Needles, Alex Needles, Kyle Needles, Ryan Needles, Zachary McAndrew; and a Brother P.J. (Lois) Needles of Iowa. Stan was preceded in death by his father Pete Needles, his mother and step-father Iris & Elmer Kellogg, a brother, Grant Needles, Great Grandchildren Payton Michael Fellner and Haley Marie Fellner. Visitation will take place at Starks & Menchinger Funeral Home on Thursday, May 10, 2007 from 6 to 8 pm. A memorial Service will be held at Starks & Menchinger Friday, May 11, 2007 at 10 am with Pastor Frank Traficanto officiating. Graveside military rites will follow at Ruggles Cemetery in Baroda, conducted by Coloma American Legion Post #362, VFW Post #1137 of Benton Harbor, & VFW Post #6803 of Watervliet. Memorials may be made to Hospice at Home or Michigan Parkinson Foundation for Research. Those wishing to share a memory or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.