William "Bill" R Bockwitz

William R. “Bill” Bockwitz of Spring Arbor, Michigan, went to be with the Lord on January 7, 2026, at the age of 87. He was born on November 17, 1938, in San Jose, Illinois, to John and Evelyn Bockwitz. Bill earned his undergraduate degree from Greenville University and masters degrees from Eastern Illinois University and Michigan State University. He devoted his life to coaching and education, with a career that took him to Beecher City, Illinois; Roberts Wesleyan University in New York; Spring Arbor University; George Williams College in Illinois; and ultimately back to Spring Arbor University, where he left a lasting legacy.

Over many years, Coach Bockwitz led cross country, track, basketball, and golf teams to numerous championships and earned multiple coaching honors. He also served as a professor at Spring Arbor University, teaching Exercise Sport Science as well as Core 100 and 400 courses, and mentoring students in their academic, personal, and spiritual growth. Additionally, he contributed to the University’s Development Office, supporting fundraising efforts to advance its mission.

While his professional accomplishments were extraordinary, Bill remained committed to excellence, sportsmanship, and coaching. He helped students train both mind and body to be disciplined and resilient under intense pressure, guiding generations of Christ-like men and women who used their faith to achieve their goals on and off the court.

Bill was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who nurtured his family with unparalleled love. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Karen (Boileau) Bockwitz; his children, Michael and Janis; and his grandchildren, George and Graham. A man of deep faith, he was a committed and active member of the Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church, now The Arbor Church.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at The Arbor Church in Spring Arbor on Saturday, January 17, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m., with a luncheon and time of sharing immediately afterward. Interment at Spring Arbor Cemetery will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to the Spring Arbor University Basketball Scholarship Fund - 106 East Main Street, Spring Arbor, Michigan  49283.