SHELBY – Mr. William “Bill” Folk, 59, of Shelby, died at his residence on Wednesday, February 13, 2013.  Born in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, he was the son of the late Roy Hamilton Folk and Ruth Mergner Folk.  Being born to a military family, home was where his family was.  Bill retired from the United States Air Force, where he achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and served as a Safety Officer. After retirement he worked as a safety consultant/field representative for several insurance companies. He was a member of Elizabeth Baptist Church where he was a member of the Coffee, Tea and Thee Sunday School Class and also was active in the Handyman’s Ministry.  He also served as a Tram Operator for the Cleveland County Fair for 32 years.  Bill loved the Lord and was also devoted to his family.  He was an avid camper and outdoorsman.  He loved NASCAR and nature (especially birds). 

Mr. Folk is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Poston Folk; by his two sons, Andy Folk of Shelby and Mark Folk and fiancé Krisia Hopper of Shelby; he is also survived by his favorite daughter, Alyssa Folk, also of Shelby; by a granddaughter, Hallie Folk; by a sister, Lynne Folk of Shelby; by his camping buddy and niece Olivia Poston of Shelby; and by a special aunt, Betty Jean Dixon of Shelby.

A memorial service celebrating the life of Bill will be held on Sunday, February 17, 2013 at Elizabeth Baptist Church at 2:00 PM with the Rev. Dr. Rit Varriale and Rev. Dr. Whitfield Blenman officiating.  The family will receive friends following the service in the Christian Life Center, at Elizabeth Baptist Church.  Military Honors will be provided by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.  At all other times, the family will be at the residence.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Handyman’s Ministry at Elizabeth Baptist Church; 301 North Post Road; Shelby, NC 28150. 

FUNERAL HOME:    Clay-Barnette Funeral Home of Shelby is serving the family.