Bill was born on May 20, 1930, in Chicago, the son of William Edward and Marie Wolfersheim. He graduated from Hinsdale High School in 1948 and attended the University of Utah on track and football scholarships.

On July 26, 1952, he married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Heim who preceded him in death in 2005. That same month they were married; Bill was drafted into the U.S Army and became a lieutenant. He spent, as he would often say, too much time in Korea where he lost most of his hearing as an artillery officer He was a strong man, both physically and mentally, and everyone knew shortly after meeting him where they stood with him. All who knew him loved him as a Died June 7, 2025

wonderful and honestly transparent man.

Bill is survived by his three children. Bruce of Suttons Bay, Kristi ( Jeffrey) Link of Traverse City, and Rebecca (Jeffery) Melancon of Fairhope, Al, five grandchildren; Jason Link, Laura Zimmerman, Hannah Feltus, Elizabeth Newman, Molly Langston, and Griselda Link; nine great grandchildren, Mateo, Owen, Josie, Brian, Elias, Jane, Bowen, Lucille, and Louise; and his special friend, Dorothy Urich.

He is and will be missed.

As per Bill’s wishes, private family services have been held.

Please share condolences with the family at www.martinson.info.

Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.