William Harrington

William “Bill” Harrington, age 87 of Battle Creek died Saturday, October 25, 2025. Bill was born on December 20, 1937, in Blytheville, Arkansas, the son of Norman Edward and Della Virginia (Hallmark) Harrington. He moved to Michigan with his family as a child and attended Battle Creek Central High School where he excelled at track, even holding a school record. After graduation he joined the Air Force serving four years from 1956 until 1960 and was stationed at Empire Air Force Station in Empire, Michigan. He became the president of the Empire Air Force retirees, coordinating retirement memorials, outings, golf trips and dinners. He was proud to design and present the official monument that was placed at the station. Bill was a hardworking man. He worked at Eaton Corporation at night and built houses during the day, including the home the family grew up in on Hoag Road. He later moved to Texas and using his knowledge and experience as a contractor formed Area Construction, Building and Fire Restoration. Bill then retired and returned to Michigan building one more home. Bill married Patricia Evans, and they had a son Craig while living in Traverse City and later moved to Battle Creek. He later married Lois who had three children Tim, Terry and Kim, and together they had Penny and Chris. He then remarried Brenda Harrington who had two children, Tim and Michelle. Bill was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he loved dearly, but he had a very special bond with great-grandson Cortland. He is survived by his children: Penny Harrington, Chris Barnes, Terry Sleight, Kim Swanger and Michelle Hackett; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two sisters: Margie Rapp and Dixie (David) Garman and a special friend Jeff Cahil. He was preceded by his parents, wife Brenda Harrington, sons: Craig Harrington, Tim and Timmy; grandson Shawn Harrington, great-granddaughter Emma, brother Ronald Harrington and sister Betty. Bill was a good father, papa and friend. He had the best sense of humor making us laugh to the end. Joyful memories Dad, you were a good man, you will truly be missed by all lives you’ve touched. You had such a great journey with love, life and laughter. A graveside service to celebrate his life will be held at 12:00 p.m. Friday, November 7, 2025 in the chapel of Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens. www.henryfuneralhome.org