William "Bill" McCrary Holdsworth Jr, aged 84, of Elk Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2024, in Bellaire. Born on January 3, 1940, in Northville, MI, Bill was the beloved son of William Sr. and Marion (Litsenberger) Holdsworth.

Bill grew up in Royal Oak, MI, surrounded by his loving siblings, Jacqueline "Jackie," Robert "Bob," and Joanne "Jo." His childhood was filled with stories and adventures, shaping the man who would become known for his humor and kind heart. Bill met the love of his life, Eleanor "Ellie" Helmbold, while attending Adrian College. They married in Royal Oak after a serendipitous introduction where Ellie was initially trying to set Bill up with one of her friends. Bill, however, had his eyes set on Ellie, and the rest is history. Together, they shared 64 wonderful years of marriage.

Bill had a successful career, beginning with D.A. Stuart Oil Company and later moving on to work at BASF Chemical Corporation, where he dedicated over 20 years. After retiring, Bill and Ellie moved to Elk Rapids, where they embraced a slower pace of life, enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

An avid golfer, Bill spent countless hours on his favorite courses, perfecting his swing and enjoying the camaraderie of friends. He also had a passion for genealogy, delving deep into the history of his family, uncovering stories from generations past. For the past eight years, Bill and Ellie spent their winters in Arizona, basking in the warmth and building new friendships.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Eleanor "Ellie" Holdsworth, and their three children: Art (Kris) Holdsworth, Dawn (Ray) Housel, and Rob (Lynn) Holdsworth, and his eight amazing grandchildren. He is also remembered fondly by his surviving siblings, Jackie, Bob, and Jo. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William Sr. and Marion, and his son, Clark Holdsworth.

Please feel free to make a donation to a charity of your choice in Bills honor.

Care has been entrusted to Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.