William P. ‘Bill‘ Guertin

Born April 29, 1947, in Escanaba, the son of Paul and Molly (McNally) Guertin, Bill was raised on the family farm in Garden where, very early in life, he developed a strong work ethic which would serve him for the rest of his life. Those early life lessons that were instilled in him taught him the value of work and a respect for what nature provided. As early as age 8 and continuing, he was driving the tractor, milking cows, plowing fields, helping harvest crops, working in the garden, and later when he was employed, he helped provide support for his ailing and aging parents. Bill graduated from Garden High School in 1965, where he was known as a shy and intelligent student. He worked for a brief time at the Fayette State Park and with the Forest Service in the Garden area. In 1966 he joined the Iron Workers Union, later relocating to Marquette. During his time with the union (now Local 8) he traveled to various job sites. Bill remained an active union member for 53 years and represented the union well. Bill entered the Army National Guard and was activated during the Detroit riots in 1967. Over the years, Bill kept himself busy taking care of the farm. His kids fondly remember tractor rides to his 40 acre lot and cutting wood all day‚ he was always a hard worker. He loved music, especially the oldies of the 50s and 60s. Bill enjoyed watching sports, all Detroit sports, an enthusiastic supporter of Michigan teams. Although not a hunter, he took pride in his sister’s skill at the sport. Bill followed politics and was an avid supporter of the Democratic Party. He could be found at local protests and marches promoting causes he believed in because of his compassion for all kinds of people. He enjoyed all the holidays, but Christmas was particularly special and festive, always with a huge balsam tree adorned with vintage bubble lights that reached to the high ceiling. He passed on the French Guertin tradition of preparing pork pies at Christmastime to his children and grandchildren. His special pride and joy were the grandchildren. He enjoyed spending time with them and following their activities.

Bill is survived by his children, Wendy Guertin of Marquette, Shawn Guertin of Onaway, and Ken Guertin of Marquette; his grandchildren, Taylor Freeman, Zachary Buruse, Daniel Guertin, Cole Guertin, and Grayson Kilburn; great-grandson, Atticus Erickson; his sisters, Kathy (Ray) Young of Garden Corners and Paulette (David) Stempien of Quincy; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may call at the Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation services on Saturday, Feb. 23, beginning at 11:30 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. Rev. Greg Heikkala will officiate. A reception will follow in the reception room located at the funeral home. Interment will be made in the spring at the New Garden Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com