William "Bill" Harry Colyer

On December 28, 2020, William Harry “Bill” Colyer, passed away peacefully at home, age 89. He was preceded in death by his parents Ernest and Martha Colyer, and his beloved half-sister Ellen Joyce Conklin. His memory will continue to be celebrated by the loving families of his children Michael Colyer, Lisa (Bradley) Choate, and Anne (Bryan) Wright, seven grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, seven nieces and nephews, his ex-wife and good friend Judith Anne Colyer, and his former companion and dear friend of the family, Geraldine Cawthra.

Born and educated in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Bill graduated from Valparaiso Technical Institute before being drafted into the United States Army. He served in Korea for 13 months, bringing home a lucky shrapnel shard that landed inches from his body, leaving him unharmed, with a thirst for travel and a new-found zeal to live life to the fullest.

After the war, Bill took his parents on their first-ever cross-country vacation. He earned his degree from Ferris State, married Judith, and taught at Byron Center High School. He loved his job and was proud of his students, often giving them imaginative nicknames. He often spoke with pride after reading about his former students’ successes online.

While raising the three children, he taught high school and driver’s education, and photographed hundreds of former students’ weddings throughout the 1960s-1980s. His family were members of Plymouth United Church of Christ and have many fond memories of potlucks, holiday celebrations, Arts Festival food booths, and sharing fellowship with good friends from Plymouth. Every school break and summer found Bill taking his family on trips: to the Osh Kosh air shows in Wisconsin, fishing in Canada, relaxing on Lake Michigan, annual spring break trips to Hilton Head Island, and driving across the country in the motor home. Bill loved exploring. He eventually visited 49 states and toured Europe 12 times. In retirement, he taught driver’s education and volunteered at seven charities.

The G.I. whose life was altered by that lucky shrapnel led a fulfilling life. Bill will be remembered fondly by many family members, friends, and former students who were lucky to know his kind, generous heart.

A Memorial Service will be held on August 28, 2021 at 2:00 pm at Plymouth United Church of Christ, 4010 Kalamazoo Ave, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49508, and his remains will be laid to rest in the church's memorial garden.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to please consider making a gift to the American Heart Association, 2469 Woodlake Circle, Suite 100, Okemos, MI 48864.