William Yontz

William (Bill) Yontz, of Big Rapids, MI (formerly of Beaverton and Howell, MI) passed away peacefully on March 16, 2021, after an extended illness. Upon graduation from Beaverton High School, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps (1979-1983) where he completed his service with the rank of Corporal. Bill traveled the world while in service, visiting many countries including Beirut, Lebanon, where he lost many Marine brothers during the Marine Corp barracks bombing ('83). Bill made it a life-long priority to ensure his fellow Marines were not forgotten. Bill was a gregarious person, making friends with scores of people over the years. Bill was very involved in many activities no matter where he lived, and he worked to improve life for everyone in the community. While in Howell, he was a Cubmaster and served as a coach or assistant coach for many years for the youth athletic programs. While in Big Rapids, Bill served on the City Planning Commission and as the Post Commander of the American Legion Post 98 where he was very active in many of the Legion's activities. Bill was very involved with Ferris State University's Hockey program and took great joy in participating in the ambassador family program. Bill's favorite holiday was Halloween and he was known for creating very imaginative, interactive, and huge Halloween displays. Bill is survived by his wife, Jennifer (Lyon); son, Matthew; an uncle, aunts, cousins and numerous extended family members and close friends. Bill was preceded in death by his son, Wesley; and his parents, Gerald and Janet (Simpson) Yontz. A celebration of life and memorial dinner will be held in early summer, details to be announced. A private memorial service will be held during the coming weeks in Gladwin, MI. Memorial gifts can be made to Meijer Heart Center, Spectrum Health Foundation, 25 Michigan NE, Suite 4100, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Or online at: spectrumhealth.org/foundation. Semper Fidelis Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006, exclusive providers of Veterans Funeral Care. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of William Yontz, please visit our flower store.