Obituary: William Pirkola, 67, of Ludington

Bill and Deb Perkola

Obituary: William Pirkola, 67, of Ludington

William “Bill” Richard Pirkola, 67, of Ludington, formally of Kentwood, passed away on Thursday, September 21, 2023.

Bill was born on January 21, 1956, the son of Kenneth Birney and Gerrie (Malina) Pirkola. He was a 1974 graduate of East Kentwood High School. On June 28, 1980, he married Debra Ann (Burke) Pirkola. Together they shared over 40 memorable years of love and laughter. 

Bill worked at Steelcase, creating beautiful furniture pieces. In 1999 he moved his family to Ludington, after years of camping at the state park. Later, he worked for Ludington Schools as a bus driver, lovingly known as “Bus Driver Bill”. Bill was part of Pere Marquette Motoring Club and attended Trinity Church. 

Bill was an outdoorsman. He could often be found hunting, camping, and swimming in Lake Michigan. He  also enjoyed his woodworking projects. Above all else, he loved spending time with those he loved, especially his grandchildren, and loved God. 

William is survived by his wife of 43 years, Deb Pirkola; daughter, Kelli Lyn Pirkola-Bankston; son, William Curtis Pirkola; sister, Lynda Possett; brother, Ken Pirkola; seven grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

William was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Gerrie Pirkola; brothers, Jeff Pirkola and Greg Pirkola.

There will be a memorial service on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at 10:30 a.m., at Trinity church in Ludington. A streaming link will be made available on request.

Arrangements were entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.OakGroveLudington.com.