William "Bill" D. Easto

When looking back on the life of Bill Easto, it is easy to agree that he never took a single moment for granted. He was a strong role model for all who looked up to him, and his solid work ethic allowed him to provide for those who depended on him. Determined and steady through all the ups and downs of life, Bill faced every challenge head-on. His family was his utmost priority and his greatest source of pride and joy. Deeply loved, Bill will be forever missed.

Bill was born on August 27, 1957. One of the five Easto boys, he was raised alongside his four brothers, Les, Tom, Ron, and Dan. Bill’s father, Irvin, supported the family by working in the steel mill while his mother, Helen, cared for the children and their home.

Growing up in Crown Point, Indiana, Bill was a typical young man of his generation in many ways. His parents instilled in him the importance of hard work and grit from a young age, values Bill would carry with him throughout his entire life. He had a paper route to earn some money as a boy. Throughout his childhood, Bill enjoyed playing baseball and gambling at the pool hall. He attended local schools and graduated from Crown Point High School in 1975. Bill then went on to pursue further education at Purdue Calumet University, earning a degree in electrical engineering in 1979.

Bill was fortunate to meet his future wife early on in life. Her name was Margie Kurzawiak, and the two worked at Kmart together while in school. Bill was smitten, and as their relationship blossomed, they fell deeper and deeper in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Bill and Margie were married in Crown Point on August 3rd, 1979. The newlyweds then settled down in their first home in Grand Rapids, Michigan, ready to step into their future as husband and wife.

Of all the things he loved in life, there was nothing more important to Bill than his family. He and Margie were overjoyed to welcome his two children, Jenny and Jeff, into their heart and home. Bill thrived in his role as a father, and he strove to be a solid example for his kids. Later, he was thrilled to become a grandfather to Kylan, Ansley, Emmy, and Naya. Bill adored his grandchildren, and he doted on them whenever he could. He looked forward to “Easto Fest” each year, when the whole extended family gathered at Sandy Pines to enjoy boating, yard games, campfires, fishing, and great conversation. Holidays were always spent with family. Recently, Bill treated his children and grandchildren to a Caribbean cruise to Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic to ring-in 2025. His family was everything to him, and he always considered himself blessed beyond measure to watch his family grow to include so many loved ones.

Bill was never one to shy away from hard work. Over the years, he built a successful career for himself working on airplanes, work that he truly loved. Bill worked at Lear Siegler Aerospace, Smiths Industries, and GE Aviation for 41 years. As an aeronautical engineer and project manager, he got to travel all over the world. Bill especially enjoyed being able to spend the last eight years of his career working alongside his son. Following his retirement in May of 2020, he moved to Portage, Michigan, in order to spend more time with some of his grandkids.

One of Bill’s greatest passions throughout his life was travel. He built his own transit van that he used to visit all 48 of the contiguous United States, taking additional trips to Hawaii and Alaska. Together, Bill and Margie traveled all over the world. He enjoyed going on adventures and quests, such as visiting all major league baseball parks and exploring all of the national parks. He also enjoyed boating and golfing when the Michigan weather allowed. Bill was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears. He liked all-you-can-eat crab at the casino and a good IPA. Bill wouldn’t let life get him down and would instead choose to say, “It is what it is.” More than anything, he loved his country and his family.

All who knew Bill Easto will certainly agree that he was a man of unwavering morals who always kept his word. He was the rock of his family, and he was a shining example of honesty, kindness, and generosity. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Bill was happiest when surrounded by his loved ones. His caring heart allowed him to touch the lives of countless others, and he truly proved to be a man of his word. Though he was taken far too soon, Bill leaves behind a priceless collection of memories for his loved ones to hold close.

William “Bill” Easto, 67, of Portage, Michigan, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 27, 1957, in Gary, Indiana, to Irvin and Helen (Abraham) Easto. Bill lived a full and adventurous life, rich in love, laughter, and purpose. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and Helen Easto. He is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Margie (Kurzawiak); his children, Jenny (Justin) McGinnis and Jeff (Kate) Easto; his grandchildren, Kylan McGinnis, Ansley McGinnis, Emmy Easto, and Naya Easto; his brothers, Les (MaryLyn), Tom (Patti), Ron (Deanna), and Dan (Penny); as well as many nieces and nephews.

A lifelong lover of golf, Bill could often be found on the green, enjoying the game with friends and family. He had a deep passion for travel and took every opportunity to explore the world—twice over, with a spirit of adventure that never faded. He also held a deep love for his country and was a proud patriot who carried that pride throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and unforgettable memories. Bill’s love for life and for his family will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Please join us for a Life Story Visitation on Sunday, April 13, from 1-5 PM at Betzler & Thompson Life Story Funeral Homes, 60900 M40, Paw Paw. Mass will be celebrated Monday, April 14, at 1 PM at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Parish. Burial at Mount Olivet Cemetery with a luncheon to follow.

Celebrate Bill’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial donations may be directed to a charity of your choice.