Lloyd Powell McKinney

Lloyd Powell McKinney began his eternal rest on July 31, 2020 and is at long-last reunited with his parents Elmer and Eila McKinney in Heaven. Lloyd was born on November 27, 1928 in Detroit, Michigan. Lloyd leaves behind his cherished wife Barbara (Martin) McKinney of 68 years, his two loving sons Mark McKinney (Denise Garman) and David McKinney (Shelly), and grandchildren Michael McKinney, Kelsey McKinney, and Ryan McKinney. Lloyd and Barbara met in 1947 and were married on March 1, 1952, spending 73 incredible years together.

Lloyd graduated from Edwin Denby High School and then studied at Western Michigan University and Adrian College prior to enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. He began his business career at Oliver Equipment Company as an industrial engineer, followed by six years at Eaton Manufacturing Company serving as an industrial engineer and contract administrator. He spent the next 30 years working at Smith Industries (Lear Siegler) in senior and special projects management. His many projects were dedicated to new state-of-the-art technologies including work on the Apollo Lunar Modules, the Space Shuttles, and F117 Fighters and B-2 Bombers. Additionally, Lloyd was active in numerous organizations throughout his career, including the Junior Chamber of Commerce, Society of Logistics Engineers, National Contract Management Association, and the American Industries Association, where he served as Chapter President.

Lloyd and Barbara were very active socially throughout their marriage and immensely enjoyed time with family and friends. Lloyd had a lifetime love for and cherished memories of sailing, swimming, water-skiing, and boating at Gull Lake, Walloon Lake, Grand Haven and travelling the waters of Lake Michigan and beyond. He spent many years as a member of the U.S. Power Squadron and the Riviera Yacht Club on Spring Lake where he held leadership positions, including Commodore. Lloyd and Barbara also enjoyed spending winters snowmobiling in Baldwin with numerous special family friends as well as hosting their many Annual Labor Day Family and Friends pool parties.

In retirement, Lloyd enjoyed traveling with his love. They spent many winters at their condominium in Florida, visiting Mackinaw Island, journeying to Hawaii, and enjoying cruises, their favorite being four weeks cruising from Alaska through the Panama Canal to Florida. But Lloyd also wanted to always stay busy, so his work driving for Ryder, limousine services, and Infiniti of Grand Rapids made him very happy. Lloyd also cherished his many years spent enjoying good conversation, great food, and lasting friendships at his weekly meet ups with The Friday Lunch Bunch.

Lloyd’s charismatic energy and fun-loving spirit was felt by all who met him. His wit and humor were unmatched.  Lloyd lived a very full life, focusing on his family and remaining adventurous until his last days. Visitation will be held to celebrate Lloyd’s life from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Thursday, August 6 at Metcalf & Jonkhoff, followed by a private, family service. Lloyd and his family were blessed by Faith Hospice who helped him transition into his everlasting Peace. In lieu of flowers, the McKinney’s request that you instead spend dear moments with your family, as we never know when they may be the last.

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