William S. De Roos

William S. DeRoos, affectionately known as "Bill," passed away on December 14, 2024, at McLaren Northern Michigan in Petoskey, Michigan. He was born on May 12, 1946, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to William and Lucille DeRoos.

 Bill graduated from Godwin Heights High School in Wyoming, Michigan, in 1964. A talented electrician, he earned his master electrical license and began working for General Motors in 1986. After a long and dedicated career, he retired in 2009.

 In 1988, Bill moved to Hastings, Michigan, where he lived until relocating to Cheboygan, Michigan, in 2015 with his beloved wife Susan. The couple met at Embers Restaurant in Mackinaw City in 2006 and married in December of 2008. Together they shared a life filled with love and treasured memories.

 Bill had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and enjoyed fishing and basking in the summer sun. He also loved playing pool and reading during his free time. When his children were young, Bill relished family trips to Mackinaw during the summers or weekend shopping excursions to Grand Rapids. During his years in Hastings, he was often seen at local spots like Big Boy or Richie’s Koffee Shop enjoying meals with his children or friends.

 He is survived by his devoted wife Susan; daughter Shawna (Troy) Furgala; son Shayne (Tara) DeRoos; grandson Khayden Furgala; granddaughters Jaelynn Furgala and Nora DeRoos; and sisters Dora Werkema, Helen McBride, and Carol Eisenlohr. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. Additionally, Bill is survived by an older son, Steve, from his first marriage and Steve’s three sons Nick, Nate and Sam.

 He was preceded in death by his parents William and Lucille DeRoos; brothers Richard DeRoos, Adrian DeRoos, and Russell DeRoos; sisters Avis Baird, Dorene Nickerson, Joyce Fosmore (and her husband George), Linda Wyatt (and her husband Bruce); as well as brother-in-law Tom McBride.

 Bill’s life was defined by hard work, devotion to family, and a love for life’s simple pleasures. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

 A memorial service will be held later in the spring.