William "Bill" Frederick Ortlieb

William “Bill” Frederick Ortlieb, age 87, of Harbor Springs, Michigan, passed away peacefully at Blissful Cottage on September 22, 2025.

He was born on November 24, 1937, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and was adopted by Lester and Flora (Baer) Ortlieb.

Bill played baseball at Western Michigan University and was a talented pitcher with dreams of reaching the Major Leagues. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury cut short those aspirations. He later met Charlene Keller, the love of his life, and they married on September 2, 1961.

He began his career in banking as a teller at the Bank of Lansing. Bill and Charlene moved to Haslett, Michigan, where they raised four children: Chuck (Cindy), Todd (Sue), Tim (Layne), and Leslie.

Bill spent much of his youth hunting and fishing with his father in Northern Michigan—an area he loved so much that he eventually moved his family to Harbor Springs in 1978. He continued his banking career there as Vice President of the Mortgage Department at First National Bank in Petoskey.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Bill cherished time spent hunting and fishing, especially with friends at his deer camp. His athleticism naturally transitioned into a love for golf. He enjoyed countless rounds with friends until his health began to decline. Living on the Chestnut Valley Golf Course, he found great joy in simply watching others play.

Everyone who knew Bill—family, friends, and clients—appreciated his consistently kind, patient, and gentle demeanor. That kindness endured through his final days. Caregivers at Blissful Cottage often remarked on his ever-present smile, even in the face of declining health.

Bill is survived by Charlene, and their children and grandchildren: Jennifer (Ryan) Earwood, MacKenzie, and Nick; Cal (Kenzie), Emma, and Harper Ortlieb. He also had three great-grandchildren, Cohen, Oneil and Felix.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Flora Ortlieb.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the exceptional staff at Blissful Cottage and McLaren Hospice. A special acknowledgment goes to Charlene and Leslie for their devoted care over the past seven years.

In keeping with Bill’s wishes, there will be no funeral. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to:
Blissful Cottage
643 E. Lake Street, Office #3
Harbor Springs, Michigan