William Ward Burleson

William Ward Burleson of Eaton Rapids, MI passed away with his family by his side on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at the age of 66. Bill was born on January 13, 1956, in Mason, MI to Clyde and Patty (Hart) Burleson.
Bill grew up in Eaton Rapids as well as Mason, graduating from Mason High School in the class of 1974. In his youth, he played 4-H softball with friends and family. He enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing, and working on cars. Although his family and friends knew of his love of space and the stars, most were surprised to learn that he took flying lessons too. From the age of two, he rode alongside his grandfather on the tractor, and spent many years thereafter farming on the family farm in Mason. Bill worked for the Ingham County Road Commission during summers before hiring into General Motors in 1976. He worked in repair at Fisher Body, then later at the Lansing Delta Assembly, and was a member of the UAW Local 602. After 44 years of service, he retired in March of 2020 and met regularly with the UAW 602 retiree group for lunch.
Bill married Roberta Bosworth on May 25, 1986, and together, with both their families, they commenced work on their dream house located on a peaceful piece of property overlooking the river in Eaton Rapids. It was a labor of love that Bill would continue to work on his whole life. He could often be found sitting on the porch admiring the sunset and wildlife with a glass of iced tea and his faithful yellow lab Aggie by his side.
Bill was a licensed general contractor, working on many projects for friends and family. He also had a fireworks certification, creating many spectacular fireworks shows for family gatherings. Bill enjoyed reading about history, especially Michigan history, and researching genealogy. Bill also spent many wonderful vacations in the Upper Peninsula with family, often in the Marquette area.
Bill was a well-loved person by everyone who met him, whether they knew him for a few minutes or all their lives. His passing will leave a void in the hearts of many, but also thankfulness for all the wonderful memories. He was preceded in death by his father, Clyde and his wife, Robin. Surviving are his lab Aggie; daughter, Mary Burleson; mother, Patty Burleson; sister, Susan (Steve) Pifer; sister, Julie (Rick) Rice; brother, Tim (Lana) Burleson; nephew, Reggie (Melissa) Rice; nieces, Patty (Chuck) Hubbard, Bobbie (Clint) Mayes, Billie Rice, Anne (Travis) VanKirk, Elizabeth (Ian) Wilson, Amanda (Don) Pifer, and Elaine (Tyler) Bandy; several great nieces and nephews, a great-great niece, cousins, and many family friends.
The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Henry Ford Jackson Hospital for their excellent care of Bill. A memorial service will take place in May at Bill’s beloved home, and he will be laid to rest in Meadowbrook Cemetery in Mulliken with his wife. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Conservation Club in memory of William Ward Burleson.To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHome.com.