William E. "Bill" Nash

William "Bill" E. Nash, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully at his son's home on October 11, 2025, following a courageous battle with ALS. Born on January 8, 1949, in Bay City, to the late Eldon and Marian (Greer) Nash, Bill's life was one marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his community.
Bill's journey began in Gladwin, where he attended Gladwin High School, laying the foundation for a life of hard work and ingenuity. On May 21, 1981, he married the love of his life, Mari Raden, in a beautiful ceremony at their home in Gladwin. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, their son Ray (Kelly) Hartwell and daughter Lori Nash. Bill's joy multiplied with the arrival of his grandchildren, Julia (Joseph) Cox, Emily (Gabe) Hodge, Erik (Olivia) Hartwell, Corey (Sunni) Hartwell, and Micheal (Fiancée Rayne Meyers) Hartwell, and later, his great-grandchildren Sophie, Eevee, and Grace Anne.
Professionally, Bill was a pillar of strength and reliability. He co-owned Nash & Son Excavating Co. with his father, and his skill as an operator was recognized by his membership in the Local 324 Operating Engineers. His entrepreneurial spirit and love for his community led him to become a founding member of the Gladwin Area Hockey Association, where he inspired many young athletes. Bill was a Life Member of the Gladwin Masonic Lodge #397 F& AM where he enjoyed the brotherhood and friendships.
Bill's siblings, Debi (Michael) Perkins, Todd (Sherry) Nash, and Julie (Jerry) French, remember him as a beacon of intelligence and resourcefulness. He was a man who could fix anything, a talent he applied to the meticulous restoration of his beloved El Camino. His interests were as diverse as his abilities; he was an avid hunter who cherished time spent in nature with his family.
Those who knew Bill understood that he was a man of many facets: intelligent, interesting, and incredibly handy. He approached life with a quiet confidence and an innate ability to understand how things worked. His legacy is not only in the projects he completed or the business he helped build but in the wisdom he imparted and the lives he touched.
Preceded in death by parents Eldon & Marian Nash and grandparents, Ervin & Helen Nash and Hazen & Bernice Greer, Bill's memory will be forever held in the hearts of those who loved him. His family will remember his unwavering strength, his generous spirit, and the countless ways he made their lives better simply by being in it.
William "Bill" E. Nash lived a life that exemplified the values of hard work, family, and community. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we take comfort in knowing that his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us for generations to come.