William Andresen

William Andresen, age 87, of Holland, passed away Thursday, October 16, 2014, at Spectrum Health Butterworth Campus. Bill always remained mindful of the magical and challenging reality in which he lived. The forces that shaped his world seemed to conspire tirelessly, in his favor. His life was the ultimate adventure because thoughts became reality, dreams came true, and most things remained forever possible. A constant series of exciting choices kept coming up. However, every time he reached a certain point where he could not decide on his own, assistance always appeared as he was guided Through the Eye of the Needle (Mathew 19:24) at each fork in the road. Now, Bill has been called to the heavenly kingdom. His life was spectacular and more exciting than he could have ever imagined, growing up in the small town of Valparaiso, Indiana. Maturing in the navy during WW II, and earning a fine education at Valparaiso and Purdue Universities was a great start. The strong genes inherited from his parents have kept Bill able to survive health issues that confronted him along the way. During his life, He was blessed with a loving wife, Barbara for 60 years who preceded him in death. Later, a lovely lady, Dr. Josephine Grieve, turned his mind away from the solitary existence he was living. Their marriage has been an unforgettable experience of love and joy. He is survived by his wife, Josephine, a Son Mark Andresen (Deborah) and a Daughter Julie Scanlan (Thomas). In addition he leaves step daughters Mary Cuncannon (Michael) and Patricia Morris. Bill was always amazed at the feats of grandchildren, Luke, Thomas, Madison, and Hannah, all of whom, held a special place in his heart. Step-grandson, Ross Gradisher preceded him in death. Step grandchildren Cameron, Ross, Leah, Shawn, Lauren, Courtney, Shannon, and Kerry added to the blessings of Bill's life. Bill was fortunate enough to gradually develop priorities and values that guided him away from seeking money, or even security, in favor of enjoyment in work, outside activities, writing, and life in general. His engineering profession led to manufacturing top management, and the position of Technical Director of the American Die Casting Institute, which he enjoyed immensely. Having a 400 page book covering the technical knowledge gained during his career published for global distribution was a special event. The experience carried him into writing that topped off a productive career. Extracurricular activity of serving on the City Council at South Haven, the Board of Education at Dowagiac, and International (U.S and Canada) Chairman of the Great Lakes Coalition was so stimulating that he would not trade it for anything. When a young Lutheran Pastor provided Bill with a special spiritual challenge he believed that the Lord had taken him by the hand to guide him through some very difficult paths during the design and construction of a new house for the Lord at Peace Lutheran church in South Haven. The later years of this extraordinary life were filled with new challenges, love, sensitivity, thoughtful dialog, and cultural exposure to the world of classical music, literature, and philosophy.

A memorial service will be held 1 pm, Saturday, October 25, 2014, at the Dykstra Funeral Home-Northwood Chapel, 295 Douglas Avenue, with the Pastor Robert Linstrom officiating. Burial will be in Lakewood Cemetery. No visitation is scheduled. Memorial contributions may be made to Mercy Health Lacks Cancer Center, 250 Cherry Street S.E.; Grand Rapids, MI 49503.