Bill Wynsma

Bill Wynsma, age 85, cherished husband, father & Papa passed away on Monday January 23, 2023 at his home in Ellsworth, surrounded by his family.  

He was born on September 24, 1937, to Thomas and Ella Wynsma at home on the family farm in Central Lake, Michigan. 

Bill attended Central Lake high school and in 1955 following graduation enlisted in the United States Army where he served his country for 3 years in France and Belgium. 

Upon discharge Bill returned home and met his wife Donna whom he married on May 19, 1961. Making their home in Ellsworth, they raised their 3 daughters. Bill started his career working in the Ellsworth Hardware in TV and radio repair, followed by several years at the East Jordan Iron Works, and eventually establishing his own business Bill Wynsma Electric, Inc in Ellsworth, retiring in 1996. 

Bill was a lifelong member of Belltower Reformed Church serving on the church consistory in roles of Elder, Deacon, and building committee.  Bill was also a member of the Ellsworth School board and Youth for Christ board in Petoskey.  

His hobbies and interests included hunting, fishing, bowling, camping, mission trips, and spending time with his family & friends. He made many special memories with his children and grandchildren on a special piece of land, fondly known as The PapaRosa. 

Bill is survived by his wife, Donna of 61 years; 3 daughters, Sherri (Duane) Carpenter of Holland, Deb (Mike) Batterbee of Lansing, Kathy (Steve) Main of Rockford; 12 Grandchildren, Aaron (Kristine), Joel (Jessica), Ashley (Eric), Abbi, Katie (Caleb), David (Laura), Stephanie, Ellen, Emily, and Thomas, Griffin (Sarah) & Chase; 1 Great-granddaughter Mia; brother, Tom (Flora) Wynsma of Ellsworth, sister, Betty Swoveland (Jerry) of Warsaw, Indiana; sister-in-law, Carol of Jenison, MI, and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, (Thomas), mother, (Ella); brother, (Burt) Wynsma, niece DeeAnn.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 27, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Ellsworth Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes, 9268 Main Street, Ellsworth, Michigan. 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 28, 2023, at Belltower Reformed Church, 8033 Church Road, Ellsworth, MI with Pastor Cobus Manders officiating. There will be a visitation at the church one hour prior to the service.  A luncheon will follow the service in the church basement. 

Burial will be held in the Spring at the Atwood Cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Bill’s memory to Belltower Reformed Church or The Front Porch Ministry in Ellsworth.  

Order flowers online at https://www.billiesfloral.com/

Arrangements are being handled by the Ellsworth Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.