Billy Gean Courter

Billy Gean Courter, 91, of Chanute, KS, passed away on April 27, 2018. He was born October 21, 1926 in Biggers, AR to Buell Elsworth and Lora Imo (Wallace) Courter. At age 18, Billy enlisted in the Navy. He trained upon the USS Wolvereen aircraft carrier on Lake Michigan and the USS charger aircraft carrier at Norfolk, VA. He was training in the flight deck division earning him the rank of 2nd aviation class boatswain. Billy served in WWII upon the USS Kearsage and Champlain aircraft carrier. He served a total of 7 years from 1944-1951. On November 15, 1947, after 3 years of service, Billy was honorably discharged but remained in inactive duty. Billy returned to Buffalo, KS where his family resided. Shortly after his return, he met the love of his life, Joetta Marie Morrison. They were married on November 15, 1948. Together they had five children, Billy Joe, Karen Rae, Bradley Neil, Gary Wade, and Ronald James. Shortly after 1951, Billy was recalled to the service during the Korean Conflict. He served upon the USS Bonhomme Richard. He was given the rank as the leading Petty Officer of the V1F division overseeing 90-plus men. After his tour was up, though he was offered a higher rank to remain in active duty, he chose to return to his wife and children. Billy’s service medals include: American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, WWII Victor Medal, American Defense Medal, Korean Service Medal with one star, Navy Occupation with Asia Clasp, Korean Medal, National Defense Medal, and a 50th Anniversary Medal of the outbreak to the Korean War. His prized possession was a piece of the USS Kearsage Aircraft carrier ship plank which he proudly displayed. In the early 1960’s, Billy and Joetta settled their family on a small farm southeast of Chanute. After Joetta preceded him in death on May 28, 1996, Billy relocated to Chanute. For many years before his retirement in 1996, Billy was an on the road trucker. During his early years, Billy worked as a dairy delivery person, Boeing airplane company, and co-owner of a Texaco Gas Station and Missile Site Construction. He is survived by: Children: Karen Hickman and husband, Frank, of Chanute, KS Brad Courter and wife, Betty, of Lowell, AR Gary Courter and wife, Susan, of Chanute, KS Grandchildren Great Grandchildren Great-Great Grandchildren Nieces & Nephews He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joetta; brother, J.C.; sister, Kathrine Swank; sons, Billy and Ronald; and grandchildren, Season and Tara. Cremation has been requested. A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church-Good News Center in Chanute, KS on Friday, May 11, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. Inurnment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Chanute, KS. Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh.com. Memorials have been suggested to ACARF and may be left with or mailed to the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to: Countryside Funeral Home 101 N. Highland, Chanute, KS 66720.

Billy Gean Courter

October 21, 1926 - April 27, 2018