William Lee Armstrong

William “Bill” Lee Armstrong, age 84, of Byron Center, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Growing up in Grand Rapids, Bill was never one to enjoy sitting behind a desk. He preferred working with his hands, learning a trade, and getting his hands dirty. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Utah, where he trained as an airplane mechanic specializing in hydraulics. Over the years, due to company closures, Bill worked for several different employers before finding his home at General Motors in Wyoming, Michigan, where he remained until his retirement on October 1, 2004.

Above all, Bill cherished time with his family. He loved taking them on vacation and exploring different parts of the country. His son, Jeff, was often his trusted co-pilot, navigating from the passenger seat with an atlas and flashlight in hand. Whether camping, traveling to new cities, or cheering on and coaching his children and grandchildren in their many sporting activities, Bill was happiest simply being together with those he loved.

Bill also took great pride in caring for his yard. He spent countless hours making sure the mowing lines were just right, every blade of grass was even, and every weed was removed with precision. He had an eye for detail that carried over into his love of woodworking. One of his special projects was building toy boxes for his grandchildren, each crafted with care and meticulous attention to detail. Bill was never one to rush through a job and firmly believed in the saying, “Measure twice and cut once!”

The greatest joy in Bill’s life was spending time with his beloved wife, Marilyn. After they both retired, they enjoyed playing golf, going for bike rides, working out together at their local gym, and sharing fellowship with their small group at Cornerstone Community Church in Caledonia. Their life together was filled with simple pleasures, shared experiences, and a deep love for one another.

Although Bill’s relationship with the Lord began later in life, his faith became an important and treasured part of who he was. He made a public profession of his faith when he was baptized at Granger Community Church in Indiana by his son-in-law, alongside two of his grandchildren. He especially enjoyed attending church each Sunday with his bride and worshiping alongside family whenever they were in town. His faith brought him great joy and became an important part of his life’s journey.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Marilyn Kay Armstrong; his parents, Donald and Margaret Armstrong; his parents-in-law, Lawrence Warren and Dorothy Garver; his brother, Richard Armstrong; and his sister, Nancy Rauch. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Jeff (Elisa) Armstrong and Julie (John) Meiser; grandchildren, Avery Armstrong, Colin Armstrong, Alayna Armstrong, Dominic (Amiya) Kalush, Carson (Samantha) Meiser, and Cole Meiser; great-grandchildren, Summer Kalush and Beckham Meiser; brother-in-law, David Rauch; sister-in-law, Sandra Armstrong; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Bill will be remembered for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, love of adventure, devotion to his family, and the faith that became such an important part of his life. His greatest legacy is the love he shared and the memories he leaves behind. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Relatives and friends may meet the family on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 1-2pm at the funeral home before the service. Funeral services will be held 2pm, at MKD Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood, with Pastor John Meiser officiating. A reception with light refreshments will immediately follow the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Mission India or Cornerstone Community Church.