July 20, 1930 – September 29, 2024
William “Bill” Martin Biergans, 94, of Eagle, husband of retired elder Rev. Betty A. Smith, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on September 29, 2024, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Born on July 20, 1930, in Lansing, Michigan, Bill’s life was marked by dedication, hard work, and love for his family and friends.
Bill was a proud graduate of Grand Ledge High School’s class of 1948. Furthering his education, he attended Michigan State University, where he would later serve as treasurer for the Michigan Pork Council for seven years, playing a pivotal role in introducing the pork chop to the market in the 1960s.
He spent the early years of his career farming until the late 1980s, a testament to his connection with the land and community. Bill’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Biergans Construction Company, where he worked alongside his late son, John Biergans. Together, they built a legacy that extended beyond the fields and into the structures that would stand as a testament to their hard work and dedication.
In retirement, Bill discovered a passion for woodworking and stained glass, creating beautiful pieces that reflected his meticulous nature and artistic eye. Described by those who knew him best as loving and handy, Bill’s ability to fix and create was matched only by his warm and generous spirit. His love for his family was his guiding light, and he leaves behind a legacy of love and craftsmanship that will be cherished for generations.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Rev. Betty Smith, and his loving children, Cheryl (Mike) Roth, Mary Jo (Rob) Wendling, and Beth (Tom) Nelson; daughter-in-law, Sue Biergans. He was a proud grandfather to 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, with one on the way, all of whom brought him immense joy. His extended family includes his stepsons, Scott (Samantha Apley) Smith and Paul (Daniella Berko) Smith, and his step-daughter, Karen (Donald) Hauck. His sisters-in-law, Jo Ann Bayhan and Sarah Briggs; brothers-in-law, Stuart Sleight and Geri Wyble; and several nieces and nephews also held a special place in his heart.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Beatrice (Palmer) Biergans; his first wife, Jeanette Biergans; his son, John Biergans; and sisters, Mary Margaret (Paul) Winegar and Gerry Sleight; brother-in-law James Briggs.
A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 12:00 p.m. at Wacousta Community United Methodist Church, 9180 Herbison Rd, Eagle, MI 48822, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in loving memory of William Biergans to the Clark Promise of Benevolent Care, 1551 M.L.K. Jr Street SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506, or the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.
A Memorial Service will also be held on Monday, October 14, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Clark Retirement at Franklin, 1551 M.L.K. Jr Street SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service, with a reception to follow at 3:00 p.m.
The family has entrusted arrangements to Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, Grand Ledge. For online condolences, please visit www.millsfuneral.com.
Bill’s service at Wacousta Community United Methodist Church may be viewed at, https://www.facebook.com/wacoustacommunityumc/
Last Updated on October 7, 2024