William “Bill” Joseph Ellenberger
William “Bill” Joseph Ellenberger, 88, of Onaway, died at Linda Margaret Retirement Community in Cheboygan Saturday, April 18, 2026. Known as Bill, he was born in Cheboygan March 19, 1938, to Albert J. and Regina (Cleary) Ellenberger. Growing up in Onaway, Bill attended Onaway High School and graduated in 1957. He continued his education at Michigan State, earning an associate degree in horticulture.
Bill’s professional life was marked by a diverse range of employment. As a young man, he began his working journey in the family business, Ellenberger Lumber Company, located in Onaway. Bill later utilized his horticultural education in a role with Smith Floral in Lansing. There, he worked in wholesale flower and plants, blending his professional skills with his passion for horticulture. Eventually he took a position with General Motors Co., where he dedicated more than 32 years as a shipping and receiving inspector. Following his retirement from General Motors Co. in 1997, Bill made the decision to return to Onaway after spending 38 years in Lansing. His return marked a new chapter, bringing him back to the community where he grew up and had deep roots. Bill’s passion for travel was evident throughout his life. Each spring and fall, he made it a tradition to embark on a journey with his close friend and travel companion, Gary. Their adventures took them to remarkable destinations, including Europe and Alaska, as well as to numerous locations across the United States. Of all the places they visited, Maine stood out as one of Bill’s favorite destinations.
In addition to his travels, Bill deeply appreciated the beauty of nature and found joy in gardening. One of his favorite leisure activities was dining out; Bill frequented many restaurants and became a regular at several of his favorites. One outing he particularly enjoyed was driving to Mackinaw City to dine at Darrow’s, where he would always end his meal with a slice of pie. An avid shopper, Bill enjoyed buying items from the comfort of home and was one of QVC’s best customers. Amidst all his interests, he cared deeply for his cats, who held a special place in his heart.
Bill was deeply devoted to his Catholic faith
Bill is survived by his brother-in-law, Keith Couture of Cheboygan; a niece, Regina (Ryan) Redmond of Cheboygan; and nephews, Keith Couture Jr. of Taylor, and Tom, Ray (Dianne) and Bob (Norma) Ellenberger, all of Onaway.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Anna Marie “Sis” Ellenberger and Therese “Terri” Couture; brothers, Tom, Albert Jr., Donald and Bernard; and his friend and travel companion, Gary Castonia.
Family and friends gathered for visitation at Chagnon Funeral Home Wednesday, April 22. The visitation began and continued until the rosary service that evening. The funeral Mass will take place at St. Paul Catholic Church today (Thursday, April 23) beginning at 11 a.m. Following the funeral service, Bill will be laid to rest at St. Paul Parish Cemetery. The Rev. Don Geyman will preside over the service. For those who wish to honor Bill’s memory, the family kindly requests that expressions of sympathy be made through donations to the Onaway Area Historical Museum.
