William ‘Bill’ Egofske

The youngest of eight children, Bill grew up in New Berlin, Wis. He studied business administration at Marquette University in Milwaukee, attended Vickers Hydraulic School in Detroit, and proudly served one year in the United States Army.

Bill was married to his great love, Carolyn (Stegeman) Egofske, for 60 years. They spent the first portion of their married life in California, where Bill built his own business, and together they raised their son, Danny. In 1988 they moved to Michigan to retire and be closer to family. A devoted husband and proud father, Bill cherished time with Danny. He helped Danny build his own rental business, and the two shared many passions. They spent countless hours at the race track, where Danny raced stock cars, worked on projects side by side, and hunted together until Danny’s sudden and unexpected natural passing in 1995.

Bill had an adventurous spirit and a deep love of life. He traveled to all 50 states and held a pilot’s license, owning his own plane. He loved telling the story of flying his small plane through the Grand Canyon in the 1960s. He was also an avid big game hunter and never tired of sharing the exciting– and often hilarious — stories of adventures with family and friends.

Bill touched many lives. He was a true people person who loved visiting, laughing and connecting with others. He was extraordinarily generous, quick to help anyone in need, and deeply loved by all who knew him. His humor, vivaciousness, and generous spirit were gifts to everyone around him.

A man of deep faith, Bill was a devoted supporter of St. Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Kingsford. He was also active in many community organizations, charities, and clubs throughout his life.

When he was not busy with friends or community activities, Bill enjoyed playing cards twice a week, spending time on computer games at home, and going out for lunch nearly every day at his favorite local restaurants. Bill had a successful career spanning 1954 to 1990, including work in blueprint design, structural detailing and checking, mechanical hydraulic design, and as a chief draftsman. Among the many projects he worked on were the Rancho Seco Nuclear Plant in California and Mount Sinai Hospital in Beverly Hills, Calif. He oversaw the work of up to 80 men on multiple field projects.

From 1981 to 1990, Bill was half-owner of Modern Metal Installations Inc. of Rancho Cordova, Calif. His company erected structural steel and installed finish work and machinery.

Bill is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolyn; his son, Daniel; his parents, John and Lydia Egofske; and his seven siblings.

A Mass will be held at St. Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Kingsford on Thursday, May 14, at 11 a.m., with Father Mike Woempner officiating. A luncheon will follow at the church. Bill will be laid to rest at Cemetery Park in Iron Mountain, Michigan, after the luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to St. Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church are encouraged.

Condolences may be expressed to the family of William A. Egofske online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.