William-Clinger-Obituary

William Clinger

Kentwood, Michigan

01/08/1930 - 01/11/2025

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DIED
January 11, 2025
LOCATION
Kentwood, Michigan

Obituary

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He was proceeded in death by his sister Patty and daughter Kim. He graduated from Union High School and Western Michigan University where he competed in football and track. He then served in the Air Force in TX and in Korea as an Army officer. He went on to teach and coach track and cross country...

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Sorry to learn of Coach Clinger's passing. He was my track coach at Wyoming Park, but he was much more than that. He taught lessons about dedication, hard work, self confidence and how to be a champion, on the field and in life. I still share his lessons on "finding your race" and pursuing through difficulties. "Training is like putting money in the bank; it will be there when you need it." Great lessons; great man.

Although I was unable to attend the funeral for COACH he left a lasting impression on me as a runner. He always motivated me to go that extra mile when I did not think I had it in me. He instilled in me the desire the to get in shape AND stay in shape! I still do this to this very day! Thank you to the family for sharing him with GV!

Mr. Clinger was my phys ed teacher at Parkview elementary school in Wyoming. He was also my backfield coach in football at Wyoming Park. I always admired him and wanted to please him. He had a huge influence upon my life. When I retired in 2014 and returned to Michigan, I got his phone number and called him. I wanted to take him out for lunch and tell him how he had influenced my life. He said he was too old and didn´t get out much, so I told him over the phone. I really don´t know if he even...

I remember Mr. Clinger well. He was my P.E. teacher from elementary through H.S., my football coach, and I had him for a class at Grand Valley. He was a gentleman who earned great respect, and served as an excellent role model to students and staff alike. We tried to get him to attend our class reunions (1966) but in his spirit of humility, he would say, "Who wants to see an old man like me?" He leaves an outstanding legacy.

I remember Mr. Clinger when he was coaching at Grand Valley back in the 70's. I believe he was their first Track & Cross Country coach. He was a great guy, who had a lot of passion for coaching and showed interest in all athlete's success. Peace to his family during this time of loss.

I am very sorry to hear of Mr. Clinger´s passing. May he Rest In Peace. I remember him as a very good assistant coach of our `62 football team. He was always very helpful and gave us excellent advice on how to play the game. He was a great coach and a great person!

My Dad was in the Korean War, told a lot of Stories ! Thank You for your Service , I Salute You Sir !! Sue Willard Gr. Mich . .

I was one of Mr. Clinger's students at Wyoming Park High School back in the 50's. I remember him being one of our favorite teachers there. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. I will remember him fondly. Judy Geyer (Van Dyke)

Thank you for your service Sir