William Charles Bryan

William Charles Bryan, 89 of Brutus, Michigan, passed away April 19, 2026. He was born in Detroit, Michigan June 2, 1936, to Earl W. and Elizabeth (Whiteman) Bryan.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Merilyn (Acree) Bryan; sister Linda Roberts; children, William (Lucretia) Bryan, and Lisbet (David) Bryan; grandchildren, Annette (Tommy) Thompson, Alan Jarman, and Travis (Hope) Jarman; and great-granddaughter Juliet (Juju); as well as many nieces and nephews.

Bill obtained his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Culver–Stockton College. After serving two years in the U.S. Army, he later earned his Master of Business Administration from Northwestern University at the age of 45. Bill enjoyed successful careers at International Harvester and A. O. Smith, where he served as president of the commercial hot water heaters division. At the age of 59, he retired from his position with the Decko Group.

He and Merilyn enjoyed their retirement on Burt Lake and spent winters in Bonita Springs, Florida. He loved boating and all things on the water. Bill had a big heart, which led him to start a home heating charity fund for those in need. He and Merilyn loved hosting parties and socializing with friends. Bill was an avid reader who loved anything related to the Civil War, shipwrecks on the Great Lakes, and was well-versed in the history of the Titanic.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Basketfull of Love at Independence Village, Petoskey, Michigan.

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