William Harrison

Here is this person who never asked for – or required much space….
Now he has even less.

This person had the spirit of a gypsy, the lifestyle of a transient, the motives and drives of King Solomon, the assets of “the artful dodger”, the visions of a president, the disciplines of an Olympic athlete, and the heart to give to others…

His failures, though many, were used as springboards for positive growth…

His successes, if any, were measured by his gained competence, his competitiveness, his strength to endure, and his loyalty, and his pride and self-esteem…

His departure is sudden, but unavoidable...
He travels now to meet his Lord.

— Harrison ‘85

William Harrison wrote the words above in 1985, nearly 41 years before his death.

Bill's faith was an important and enduring part of his life. The words he wrote many years ago — “He travels now to meet his Lord” — reflected a faith he carried throughout his life.

Bill served four years in the United States Navy aboard the USS Pawcatuck, USS Lester, and USS Myles C. Fox. He was a lifelong learner, earning a degree from Kendall College of Art and Design in 1964, an Associate of Science from Davenport University in 1972, and a Bachelor of Arts from National College of Education in 1987.

Professionally, Bill combined his artistic abilities with a talent for design and construction. Early in his career, he worked for Rapistan in Grand Rapids, where his work included drafting and drawing conveyor systems. He later worked for United States Gypsum (USG) in Chicago in the field of architecture. He eventually started his own construction consulting business, providing remodeling services and putting his experience and skills to work for others.

Bill was an avid bowler and participated in multiple leagues in both Michigan and Chicago, forming many lasting friendships along the way. To his bowling friends, he was known simply as “Snake.” Each year, he designed shirts for their annual tournaments, and his artwork eventually carried its own name: “Snake Bite Designs.”

Music was also an important part of Bill's life. He had a beautiful voice and sang with Sounds of Joy, a traveling gospel singing group from the Grand Rapids area. He also shared his voice at many weddings and funerals over the years.

William was on a lifelong journey to discover where he belonged. He spent much of his life searching for his biological family. He eventually found his birth mother and, in time, connected with other members of his biological family.

He is survived by his daughter, Cynthia Lee (Robert Riedel) of Hartford, Michigan; and his brother, David Slagter of Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Arrangements by Inclusive Funeral Care, 773-318-1305 or [www.InclusiveFuneralCare.com](http://www.InclusiveFuneralCare.com).