William "Bill" Charles Hollingsworth

William "Bill" Charles Hollingsworth of Merill, Michigan 

Beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully on Friday, May 11, 2024, at Brookdale Assisted Living of Midland. He was 83 years old. William Charles Hollingsworth was born on May 17, 1940, in Midland, Michigan, the late Leonard and Zeda (Kade) Hollingsworth. He grew up in the farming community of Hemlock and attended Hemlock Public Schools. From a very young age, Bill used his mechanical mind to tinker, fix, wrench on all types of machinery. He married the love of his life, Karen Lee Skuczas, on May 15, 1965; she preceded him in death on November 1, 2010. The role of his lifetime, one he treasured and cherished above all others, was to be a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. As a young man, Bill worked for Rick Ford as a mechanic, later at Campbell's the local John Deere dealership, both in Hemlock. He spent a majority of his working career as a John Deere mechanic at Bader & Sons in St. Louis, Michigan, retiring after many years of loyal and dedicated service. Throughout his life, Bill was a member of many antique tractor clubs. He and Karen often enjoyed traveling and attending various tractor shows. He was always proud to show all the antiques he was able to restore. Following the death of his beloved wife, Bill found new love and companionship with Betty Armstead. They two would spend time at the Octagon Barn, traveling to Florida and other places across the state and country, and taking many camping trips. Bill also loved his grandchildren, often making time for each and everyone. He will forever be remembered as a man that could fix anything mechanically, for the love and care he had for his family, and for truly living an amazing life filled with many beautiful memories and stories. 

Surviving are a daughter, Sandra (Troy) Martin of Merrill; two grandchildren: Brandon Martin of Merrill; Rebecca Martin of Merrill; Betty's son, Greg Armstead of Midland; three sisters and one brother: June Ziehmer of Hemlock; Monica Nicolai of Wheeler; Susan Dungey of Wheeler; Richard (Caroline) Hollingsworth of Helmock. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Karen Lee Hollingsworth; special friend and companion, Betty Armstead; parents, Leonard and Zeda Hollingsworth; two sisters, Nancy (Jim) Roberts and Connie (Al) Garrecht; and two brothers-in-law, Dan Ziehmer and Bill Dungey. 

Honoring Bill's wishes, cremation has taken place, with no services planned. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the American Diabetes Association. Arrangements have been entrusted to the W. L. Case and Company, 125 E. Saginaw Street, Merrill, Michigan, 48637. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family through www.casefuneralhome.com.