William Whitscell

He is survived by three sons: Thane (Sue Riedlinger) of Alpena, Mark (Maria) of Bay City, and Brian of Traverse City. He is survived by eight grandchildren: Thane’s children Brandon Whitscell, Shannon (Billy) Brousseau, Mark’s children Justin (Victoria), Megan (Cody) Whitscell-Scott, Zachary, and Noah, and Brian’s children Sarah (Myles) Weaver and Mandy (Jack) Staats. He is also survived by three great grandchildren: Callie Brousseau, Amaya Brousseau and Emerson Whitscell. In addition, he loved and was loved by Thane’s former spouse, Lorell Whitscell, as well as a special friend, Denise McKenna.

During his adult life, Bill was employed at various jobs including the Remus Creamery, Spens Pharmacy in Alpena, Carrow’s Market in Farwell, and other groceries in Alpena. Folks in Alpena may remember him as a meat cutter at Perch’s IGA, where he spent many years. Following his work at Perch’s, he went into business for himself as a meat processor in Hubbard Lake. Known by many in the area as “Bill the Butcher,” some still remember the sausage he made during Whitetail season.

In addition to family and work, Bill enjoyed fishing on a boat he and his son Thane owned named The Cedar Cleaver. He especially loved salmon fishing in the Black River area of Lake Huron. While Marilyn was alive, she and Bill loved to play cards at the Poker Room in Alpena or various casinos throughout the state. Following her death, the family established the semi-famous “Thursdays with Pa” to help him through her loss. They gathered nearly every week for a home-cooked meal followed by several games of euchre and much laughter. Bill also enjoyed hunting whitetail and did so on his grandson Brandon’s property up until the fall before his death.

At Bill’s request, there will not be a funeral service. Instead, a small family gathering will be held on June 27, 2026. He will be interred at Grace Lutheran Cemetery next to his beloved wife Marilyn. McWilliams Funeral Home has assisted the family with arrangements.