William Aponte-Rosa

William Aponte-Rosa, age 69, of Grand Rapids, passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2018 at Spectrum Health Nursing & Rehab Center surrounded by family. The son of Angel & Marcola (Gerena) Aponte, he was born on May 24, 1948 in Fajardo, Puerto Rico. He was a proud U.S. Navy Veteran serving during the Vietnam War era. William had a passion for the work of the Lord. He served as the church bible school teacher, Elder, Deacon, and ministry leader at the Rock of Salvation Church in Bronx, NY. William had a heart to serve others, and especially devoted his efforts to prison ministry outreach. His love of music lead him to sing in the church choir and become their sound engineer. When William wasn't serving the church, he spent his time working on cars. His compassionate nature also inspired him to give loving homes to as many rescue dogs as he could. William is preceded in passing by his parents; and step-father, Oscar Oliveri. William is survived by his loving wife, Argelia (Geigel) Aponte; children, Lillian (Samuel) Avila, and William Aponte Jr.; grandchildren, Sam A. Avila Jr., Lily A. Avila, Alison F. Avila, and Annalise B. Avila. A memorial service will take place at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 21, 2018 at Bethel Assembly of God, 832 Grandville Ave. S.W., Grand Rapids. A committal service with full military honors will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, January 22, 2018 at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, 15501 Dickman Rd., Augusta. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of William Aponte-Rosa, please visit our flower store.