William Frank "Bill" Scott's Obituary
William Frank “Bill” Scott, age 84, passed peacefully on August 22, 2023, at Grand Pines Assisted Living Center in Grand Haven, ending his yearslong struggle with debilitating anxiety and dementia.
Bill was born on June 18, 1939, to Ernie and Tina (Gankema) Scott in Grand Haven, Michigan. He grew up on Pennoyer across from Ferry Elementary and developed many close friendships that remain to this day. He earned a BS from Ferris State University and Master of Arts in teaching from Western Michigan University. He taught biology and chemistry at Mona Shores High School for over 25 years. Even after retiring from teaching, he continued his enthusiasm for science by performing chemistry shows for kids at Loutit Library where he volunteered for many years. Bill was multi-faceted. He was a talented amateur artist and musician. He loved movies and music from many different genres and was an avid reader with a massive collection of Civil War books and memorabilia. He took great pride in the house he owned for over 50 years on 2nd Street. It was not only his refuge, but housed many well-loved cats over the years. Whether by car, freighter ship, train or plane, Bill enjoyed travel of all kinds and has a bajillion photos to prove it! Above all, cars were his biggest passion. From classic to sporty, he at one time or another owned them all, with his favorite being his 1956 Porche Speedster. He loved entering it in car shows and collected many awards and accolades. Bill loved following University of Michigan athletics and the Cincinnati Reds baseball.
Bill had a big social network – from friends and coworkers with whom he golfed, bowled and played cribbage, to his Saturday Breakfast Club pals during his retirement years. He was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, serving as both elder, and deacon on various committees, singing in the Geneva Choir and proudly playing timpani on Easter Sundays, for many years. He was a sharp dresser with a great smile and wonderful sense of humor. He will be remembered fondly and missed dearly.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, and brother-in-law, Ed Suchecki. He is survived by his sister, Ruth (Ed) Suchecki; brother, Len (Lori) Scott; daughters, Susie (Chris) Krupp and Julia Scott; granddaughter, Carly Krupp; former spouse, Barbara Scott; a niece and five nephews and many great nieces and nephews. The family is very thankful for the staff and 3 years of wonderful care Bill received at GPALC – The Terrace and to the dedicated and kind Careline Hospice staff providing hospice care during his final 3 months of life; we thank you for your help, love and guidance on Bill’s long and difficult journey.
Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at First Presbyterian Church, 508 Franklin Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417 on Thursday, August 31 at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow; a visitation will be offered at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417 on Wednesday, August 30, from 4 - 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider making a donation to a local community mental health/substance abuse program or your local animal shelter in memory of Bill. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.
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