William “Bill” Isenberg, age 83, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert “Bob” Isenberg. Bill is survived by his wife of 59 years, Barbara; his daughter, Elizabeth “Beth” (Tim) Stevens; his cherished grandchildren, Caroline and Will; his sister-in-law, Jacki Isenberg; and his niece, Sarah (David) Lester.
Bill was born in St. Louis, Missouri, where he attended Lutheran schools and formed lifelong values rooted in faith and service. As a boy, he treasured visits to his uncle’s farm in southern Illinois, experiences that nurtured his appreciation for hard work and craftsmanship. Bill graduated from Ferris State University and later earned his master’s degree from Michigan State University.
Throughout his professional life, Bill worked for both Steelcase and Herman Miller before dedicating his talents to education and service. He ran the Veterans Outreach Program at Davenport University and taught night classes at Aquinas College and Western Michigan University, where he made a lasting impact on countless students.
An avid boater, Bill found great joy entertaining family and friends aboard his beloved boat, “Sunward”, at Grand Isle Marina. He was an active member of the Power Squadron boating group and loved life on the water. Bill was also a gifted woodworker, building stables and handcrafted items for the Kent County Sheriff’s Mounted Patrol.
Faith played a central role in Bill’s life. He sang in his church choir for over 30 years, including the honor of singing at President Gerald R. Ford’s funeral at Grace Episcopal Church. He also faithfully served as a member of the security team at St. Mark’s, offering his time and presence wherever needed.
Bill will be remembered for his steady kindness, generosity of spirit, love for his family, and unwavering commitment to serving others. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.
Funeral services will be held at 12pm on Friday, February 6, 2026, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 134 Division Ave N #3173, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, with visitation one hour prior. Interment Rosedale Memorial Park. Memorial contributions can be directed to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.
7 Responses
I enjoyed many summers on the Sunward with “Mr. Isenberg” as the best boat captain, always willing to put up with our crew of teenage girls invading his peace and sleeping all over his boat on weekends! Love and hugs to one of my very best friends, Beth, and her mom, Barb.
We were lucky to spend the past couple of summers sharing a dock with Wild Bill and Barb at Grand Isle. Bill was truly one of a kind, and we cherished the stories, jokes, and laughs he shared with our family. He will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to spend time on the water with him over the years.
Very sad to find out Bill past away. He was one of my favorite customers at the bank and I cherish all of his fun stories and even grabbing a cigar together. He will be missed by many. The staff at the bank send our condolences
Sending lots of love and prayers to one of our favorite speech teachers, Ms. Beth.
Love The Fabers- Henry and Will
Sending lots of love and prayers to our wonderful speech teacher, Ms. Beth
Love the Fabers- Henry and Will
Sending hugs and prayers and praying for peace to the Isenberg family. As both of our children Ryan and Erin Bennett had Mrs for kindergarten and still remember her fondly in their 40s! As we as the parents also remember. And their father Michael Bennett had Mr. Isenberg at Aquinas!
I am Ruth Gerard, Heidi Stamms mom and i’d like to send my respects to you both and say I’m so very sorry for Bills passing!! May the Lord comfort you w/ His presence before you and behind you and give you strength in grieving!! Love, hugs and prayers, Ruth