William "Bill" Joseph Burggraf

William “Bill” Joseph Burggraf, age 86, of Mattawan, passed away, Sunday, June 2, 2024, at his home in Mattawan. Bill was born on June 12, 1937, in Kalamazoo, Michigan to George and Cleo (Ulrich) Burggraf.  

Bill worked in Vicksburg, Michigan for Lee Paper Company; while living in the area he met his former wife (Patricia Smith) and they were blessed with a daughter, Toni. Later in life, he met his beloved wife, Eloise “Ellie” Shetterly, with whom he shared over 39 years of marriage, and a son William. Their blended family was the cornerstone of Bill’s life and a source of immense pride and joy. Family was the heart of Bill’s existence, and he embraced his role as a father and stepfather with grace and love. He taught his children the values of respect, hard work, and compassion. His legacy of love and unity will continue to guide and uplift his family as they navigate life without him. 

Bill worked for over 27 years delivering mobile homes and managing mobile home communities. He was very knowledgeable about the building trades and took great pride in his work. In Bill’s younger days, his love of the outdoors led him to take many adventures, including an extended trip to Alaska. He enjoyed canoeing, fishing and hunting and for many years took annual camping trips with his close friends and family.  In his later years, one of his greatest pleasures was watching his “grand dogs”, Smudge and Dreamer. 

Bill’s legacy lives on through his children, William “Billy” Burggraf, Charles “Chuck” Woodstock, Constance (Steve) Tichelaar, and Carol McGuire; grandchildren, Amy (John) Lewis, Charles (Jennifer) Woodstock, Curtis Berns, Erin Berns, Steven McGuire and Meaghan McGuire; and many great-grandchildren. 

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, wife, Eloise, daughter, Toni, and sons, Steven and Mark.  

Family and friends are invited to visit Sunday, July 14, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The Vintage Rose, 21335 County Road 653, Gobles, MI, where a luncheon will be served. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family to help with funeral expenses.