William Wiltse Sr

William "Wilbur" Wiltse, 62, of Ellsworth, passed away on November 9, 2016 in the woods of Antrim County, doing what he loved, coon hunting with his dog and his gun in his hands. Bill was born on December 23, 1953, in Charlevoix, the son of Ralph and Jacque (McGuire) Wiltse. Bill was a long time and faithful member of the Central Lake Bible Baptist Church. He was an avid hunter and held memberships in the NRA, the Michigan Bear Hunters, the U.P. Bear Houndsman, and the United Hunting Dog Federation. He also loved farming and horseback riding and was the leader of the Antrim County Rodeo Club. On February 14, 1975, in Rapid City, he married Ranelle G. Harmon who survives. Also surviving are three sons, Bill (Mel Eckhardt) Wiltse of Central Lake, Jacob Wiltse of Ellsworth, Caleb (Amanda) Wiltse of Eastport, five grandchildren, Tyler, Tommy, Tristin, Emma and Lillian as well as four sisters, Bonnie (Bob) DeRosia of Central Lake, Patricia Wiltse of Ellsworth, Jessy (Terry) Johnson of Mancelona, Lory (Vini) Padron of Florida as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and infant siblings Frederick and Judy. Visitation will be on Sunday from 2-4 p.m. at the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Funeral services will take place on Monday, November 14, 2016 at 12 noon p.m. at the Central Lake Bible Baptist Church. Pastor Russell Tharp will officiate. Private family burial will take place on the family farm. Flowers will be accepted by the family or those wishing to make a donation they can direct them to the family. Arrangements are being handled by the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.