William Frederick Pioch

William "Bill" Frederick Pioch III, 83, died on September 19, 2026, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. He was born on December 22, 1942, in Detroit to the late William Frederick and Lois Wilhelmina (Martin) Pioch II.

Bill lived in a way that reflected who he was at heart: genuine, authentic, simple, creative, fun-loving, and always learning. He was a no-fuss man who liked to keep things simple, and he embraced life with a steady and open spirit.

He worked as a salesman in the automotive industry. He also traveled extensively internationally. Outside of work, Bill found great joy in the natural world. He was a master gardener with a wonderful background in horticulture, and he was especially passionate about organic foods. He took special pride in his tomatoes, which brought him a great deal of happiness. In his younger years, he was a swimmer. He also found great joy volunteering at schools in Detroit and was often called Farmer Bill by all the students which he loved.

One of the accomplishments that meant the most to Bill was his valued place in the recovery community, where he was a member for more than 40 years. His presence there was an important part of his life and a meaningful part of the lives of others.

Bill is survived by his wife, Kathy whom he married on June 12, 2015; his sisters Kathy (Jim) Barrie, Maggie (Ron) Hazzard and Marty (Bob) Nunemacher; grandson Nathanial (Nate) Pioch and many extended family members and friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his son William (Willy) Pioch IV.

A funeral service will be held on October 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City, Michigan. Memorial contributions in his honor may be directed to the Traverse City Children’s Garden. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.