Surrounded by family, Stanley Walter Wilson of Britton, Michigan passed away the evening of August 13, 2025, in his home. Born on July 30, 1950, in Monroe, Michigan, Stan lived a life marked by service, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to hard work.
A proud graduate of Deerfield High School in Deerfield, Michigan, Stan was called to serve by the United States Army in 1969. He served on active duty until 1971 and continued in the reserves until 1975. During his military career, he achieved the rank of Specialist 4 (E-4) and was honored with several commendations for his service during the Vietnam War. His decorations included the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Good Conduct Medal—testaments to his bravery, endurance, and complete fulfillment of responsibility.
After returning home from Vietnam, Stan began laying the foundation for a successful life full of family and friends. While working at Budd Co., he married his wife Nancy, of 44 years who assisted his ambitions of self-employment. His vision came to fruition with Wilson’s Backhoe & Excavation—a company he built from the ground up and ran with pride and determination for many decades. In 2006, encouraged by those who recognized his leadership and integrity, Stan ran for Lenawee County Road Commissioner. He served in that role with distinction until his retirement in June of 2025.
Stan was known for being a steadfast pillar in the community through various ways; more intimately remembered as a “great boss to work for” and as a man “[I] learned a lot from.” His tireless work ethic was matched only by what many affectionately described as a legendary stubbornness—a trait that made him both a challenge and a delight to those who loved him. Whether it was restoring classic cars, flipping one man’s junk into another man’s treasure, drinking his morning coffee while scratching off lotto tickets, or simply spending time outdoors where he felt most at peace, Stan found joy in life’s simple pleasures.
Above all else, Stan cherished time spent with his family. He lit up when visited by his grandchildren and took great pride in watching them grow. He is lovingly remembered by his mother Deloras Dusseau; his wife Nancy; siblings Bob Wilson (Karen), Kevin Wilson (Debbi), Sharon Williamson (Percy), and Patty Caron (Jeff); children Angie Wilson-Lama, Caitlin Clark (Andrew), and Sam Wilson (Mackenzie); grandchildren Brenan Wilson (Ashley), Chelsea Felver (Zach), Courtnie Brown (Jason), Winry, Grayson, and Levi; and great-grandchildren Thomas, Tilar, and expected arrival of a granddaughter.
He was preceded in death by his father Alfred Wilson and brother Charlie Wilson.
Stan’s legacy is one of resilience, loyalty, and love—a man who gave fully of himself whether serving his country or supporting those closest to him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be held on September 6, 2025, from 04:00 PM to 07:00 PM at his home of 6300 Sutton Rd. Britton, MI 49229. Military Honors will be held at 04:30 PM followed promptly with dinner; arrive at your convenience. There will be opportunity to share stories with a videographer, to capture memories for our younger family members to hear later.