Search by Name

Search by Name

BORN

1940

DIED

2017

William Stryker Obituary

LTC (ret) J. William "Bill" Stryker, age 77, of Romeo, Michigan passed away on July 24, 2017.
Bill was born on April 20, 1940 in Grand Rapids, MI., to Dr. John O. and Marian A. Stryker. He married Eleanor F. Stryker on September 26, 1964. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, James William II (Jennifer), Marian S. Jenkins (Richard), and Kathryn S. Greenbauer (Steve); and his grandchildren, Jamie, Chloe, and Hannah Greenbauer and Joshua and Samuel Jenkins; his brothers, Dr. John A. Stryker (Mary) and David P. Stryker survive.
LTC Stryker was appointed to the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY by former president Gerald R. Ford and graduated in 1963. He was a highly decorated Vietnam Veteran who served his country for 23 years. LTC Stryker was also an Airborne Army Ranger. His many awards include the Combat Infantry Badge, a Bronze Star, a Defense Meritorious Service Award, Army Commendation Medal, Legion of Merit, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry w/Palm and Gold Star, and many other medals, too many to mention.
After completing his graduate degree at the University of Michigan, he taught Military History at USMA West Point and co-authored one of the history text books. During his distinguished career, LTC Stryker also worked for NATO and was the Program manager for the US Army's Heavy & Light Tactical Vehicles.
Upon retirement from active duty in 1986, LTC Stryker began a career with General Motors. He was instrumental in the GM's Mobility Program to make more vehicles handicapped accessible. LTC Stryker was also chosen to represent GM as a 2002 Olympic Torch bearer.
Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being outdoors, he was an avid reader and lifelong historian. He was proud of his family and a doting grandfather. He was loved by all who knew him and will be missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter, Gabby Greenbauer.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in Bill's name to Misericordia Heart of Mercy. Donations can be made online at Misericordia.com or sent to Misericordia, 6300 North Ridge, Chicago IL 60660. Please reference family number 6041A

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Holland Sentinel on Aug. 5, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for William Stryker

Not sure what to say?





1 Entry

The Sisters and Residents of Misericordia

August 4, 2017

Our sympathies and special prayers for Bill and all his friends and family.

Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results

Make a Donation
in William Stryker's name

Memorial Events
for William Stryker

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor William Stryker's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more