C. William Brandell

December 2, 1939 - August 31, 2021

C. William Brandell, age 81, died Tuesday, August 31 in Traverse City, Michigan. Bill was recognized by many for his unfailing dedication to the University of Michigan, where he graduated in 1961, starting a tradition shared by his wife, children, and grandson. “Beebs,” as he was known to the many student athletes he coached and taught over the years, was an all-around athlete himself, lettering in all four spring sports. He was a distance swimmer and the first All-American athlete at Plymouth (Michigan) High School in 1956 and 1957. Bill taught in the Battle Creek Lakeview School District for 27 years and coached football, swimming and diving including several state champions and All-Americans. Many of these athletes also went on to compete at the college level. Prior to Lakeview High School, Bill taught and coached in Belleville Michigan for 9 years. He was President of the National Interscholastic Swimming Coaches Association from 1977 to 1983 and was recognized for his coaching when he was inducted into the National Swimming Coaches Hall of Fame. Bill loved anything to do with the water. He loved scuba diving and boating, a love he passed on to three generations. He was an avid golfer, a sport that connected him to many of his closest friends. Many will recall that he was also the “Old Coach” providing insights on the Channel 41 Friday Night Football series. After retirement, Bill spent time volunteering for Habitat for Humanity as part of the Lakeview Teacher’s “kitchen crew.” Bill is survived by his wife, Shug, three children, Cherise (Robert Smith), Brian (Nicole), and Barry (Doreen); two grandchildren, Greg (Elizabeth) and Harrison; and two great grandchildren, Liam and Sean. Bill also counted among his children JP Veloso-Ferreira, nieces Kristen (Mark) Luedtke and Kelly (Mark) Carlson and their families and “step” grandsons Brian and Kevin (Missy) Smith and “step” great grandchildren Piper and Brody. Those interested in memorializing Bill through a donation may contribute to the Battle Creek Area Habitat for Humanity or to the Battle Creek Community Foundation Gary and Marlene Beard Fund. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Bill’s family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.