William J. Sieffert's Obituary
With great sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of William “Bill” Sieffert, age 85, on Thursday, April 2, 2026, surrounded by family.
Bill was born at home on March 6, 1941, to Bert and Thelma (Phelps) Sieffert. The Sieffert family, originally from Canada, had established deep roots in the Kingsley area generations earlier. He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters: Beverly Sieffert, Phyllis (Sieffert) Mackey, and Halcyone (Sieffert) Brown. He is survived by his sisters Ardella (Sieffert) Hoyt and Alice (Sieffert) Engwahl (Phil).
Bill was raised in Kingsley, Michigan, alongside his sisters, where he attended local schools, including a one-room stone schoolhouse. From an early age, he learned the value of hard work—whether helping his father in the family garage or assisting on his sister’s farm. These early experiences shaped the strong work ethic and character that would define his life.
As a young man, Bill embraced life fully. He had a love for dancing and was often found with classmates dancing in the school hallways. He enjoyed sports of all kinds, including baseball and basketball. His lifelong passion for bowling was evident in the many Wednesdays he spent at the local alley. During these years, he formed deep and lasting friendships, including a cherished lifelong bond with his dear friend, Chum Vogue. These relationships remained important to him throughout his life.
Following high school, Bill began his career as a nurse at the State Hospital in Traverse City, where he met the love of his life, Carol Jean Colwell of Ann Arbor, Michigan, who was completing an internship at the hospital. After a short courtship, the two eloped to California and were married in Downey on October 1, 1965. This marked the beginning of a devoted marriage that would span 60 years.
As Bill and Carol started their family, he transitioned to the Maintenance Department at the State Hospital, where he dedicated many years of service. Known for his reliability and strong sense of responsibility, Bill also took on additional roles over the years, including driving a school bus for Traverse City Schools and working at Cone Drive Gears. No matter the job, he took great pride in doing things the right way.
After his time at the State Hospital, Bill became the proud owner of a convenience store in Kingsley, Michigan, which he operated until his retirement in 2000. Though he wore many professional hats throughout his life, his true passion was carpentry. He found joy in working with his hands—building, fixing, and creating things that would last for generations.
Bill was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Carol (Colwell) Sieffert. Together, they built a life in Kingsley, raising their family in a home filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories. In 2025, they relocated to Leesburg, Florida, where Carol continues to reside.
Above all, Bill was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Carol, of Leesburg, Florida; his children Scott (Amanda) Sieffert of Kingsley, Michigan; Susan (Randy) Beach of Dawsonville, Georgia; and Steven (Michelle) Sieffert of Goodrich, Michigan; and his cherished grandchildren, CJ(Conrad) Upham Sieffert, Coleman Sieffert, Parker Sieffert, Shelby Schons, and Shelby Maconochie.
Bill will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his deep love for family, and the many friendships he held close throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, craftsmanship, and quiet strength that will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Details will be announced by the family.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the United Methodist Church of Kingsley, Michigan, and the Kingsley community for years of unwavering support, as well as to the many special people who touched Bill’s life.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Steverson Hamlin & Hilbish Funerals and Cremations, 226 E. Burleigh Blvd., Tavares, FL 32778, (352)343-4444. Online condolences may be left on the Tribute Wall at https://www.steversonhamlinhilbish.com
What’s your fondest memory of William?
What’s a lesson you learned from William?
Share a story where William's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with William you’ll never forget.
How did William make you smile?