William Griffin

William Francis Griffin passed from this life on November 8, 2022, undoubtedly headed for his next adventure. He was born to Thomas and Louise Griffin in Chicago and remained in the area until he left for Kalamazoo to attend Western Michigan University. Bill was proud to be accepted at Fenwick High School, a Catholic college preparatory school. When Bill was thirteen, he lost his father, a significant event that shaped much of the rest of his life. Bill took seriously the responsibility of watching out for his mother and his siblings Kathleen, Tom and Dan. He developed his excellent work ethic at a young age which propelled him into becoming a successful businessman. The loss also made him the caretaker he was. Bill always took care of people. He hosted Christmas parties complete with Santa visits for children in need; he sent surprise gifts to people; one Valentine's Day he gifted every employee of his travel agency with a crisp one hundred dollar bill; when his sister was ill, he sent her and her nurse on a cruise to brighten her days; he always provided for his immediate and extended family. Bill Griffin had a most generous heart and soul. Bill was a member of Delta Upsilon fraternity at WMU and was president of his senior class. He remained in touch with several of his fraternity brothers for the rest of his life. He graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in business administration. After a year of teaching, Bill decided the classroom wasn't a good fit for him. With meager financial backing, huge risk and even greater confidence, Bill embarked on his business career, opening and owning two tie shops, a fritter shop and a travel agency. Adventure Travel opened in downtown Kalamazoo in 1972 and remained a fixture on Michigan Avenue until 2015. Bill employed thirty people. He sold the business in 2006. Bill Griffin is the epitome of the self-made man. Bill married Kathleen Stiles and they began their life together at married housing on Western's campus. Within two years, they built their own home. They became parents to Stephanie Lynn and Laura Beth. Though the marriage ended, Kathleen and Bill remained the closest of friends. Bill married Diane Rondina and they enjoyed life in South Haven and Fort Myers. Bill thrived on challenges his entire life and though he encountered obstacles at times, he always remained positive. His gifts to so many people were his positivity and his attitude of gratitude. A family member frequently called him Dale Carnegie and would add, "But you're more chipper than Dale." When Bill wasn't working, he pursued many passions. He was a worldwide traveler, especially loving Western Europe. He played tennis and ran for many years. He enjoyed boating on his beloved Lake Michigan and the Gulf of Mexico. He was a huge Chicago Cubs, Bulls, Bears and Black Hawks fan and often attended home games. Shopping at Whole Foods was a bit of an art form for Bill as was dining at healthy food restaurants. He may have been known to bring his own dressing to restaurants on occasion. Though Bill was a phenomenally successful businessman and entrepreneur, he remained humble and never forgot his roots which grounded him. One abiding thing counted more for Bill than all the success---family. He cherished the times when all the family gathered together and saw to it that it happened as often as possible. Bill's surviving family are his beloved daughters, Stephanie and Laura; adored grandchildren, Blythe Louise Byrkit and Pierce Griffin Byrkit; Kathleen Griffin and Melinda Stiles-Conrad; special nephew, Burke Matyas, Ryan and Alex Griffin; nieces Jeanine Zanoni and Stacey Boutilier. In addition, Bill leaves a wide circle of treasured friends. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to dear friend, Mark VanDomelen. Services will be announced at a later date. Those who wish to honor Bill may do so by donating where there is a need, channeling his generosity as you do so. He would love that. Published by Kalamazoo Gazette from Nov. 15 to Nov. 20, 2022..