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William V. Bothe

June 10, 1949 — April 23, 2026

Bay City, Michigan

William V. Bothe

William V. Bothe, born June 10, 1949, peacefully passed away at his home on April 23, 2026, with his beloved family and loyal dog Kassie by his side. A devoted family man and a respected member of his community, William’s life was marked by dedication, hard work, and a genuine love for those close to him.

William grew up working alongside his father, Verne Bothe, and his brothers on the family farm, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep connection to the land. He graduated from Central High School and soon embarked on a noteworthy career serving the Monitor Township Fire Department from 1976 to 1993. Following this period of public service, he applied his skills and leadership as a Constructional Manager for 35 years at Rohde Brothers, earning respect and admiration in his field.

He was a man of varied interests who found joy in hunting, watching NASCAR and the Detroit Lions, visits to the casino, and engaging in puzzles. Above all, William cherished traveling with the love of his life, Marsha, with whom he shared 56 wonderful years of marriage. Family was central to William’s life; he treasured the moments spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, nurturing strong bonds that enriched all their lives.

William is survived by his devoted children, Kimberly (Mike) Stieve, Todd (Amy) Bothe, and Jamie Bothe; nine grandchildren, Jessica, Zach, Brittany, Taylor, Cori, Breanne, Katherine, Emily, and Nash, eight great-grandchildren with one more on the way. He also leaves behind his brothers, Dave (Connie) Bothe and Rick (special friend, Vicky Summer) Bothe; brothers-in-law, Gary (Elaine) Voss and Tony Biskup; special cousins, Don (Penny) Rueger; and many nieces and nephews who carry forward his memory. Kassie, his faithful dog and companion, also mourns his passing.

William was preceded in death by his loving parents, Verne and Marie (Hammerbacher) Bothe; his cherished wife, Marsha Bothe; siblings Ron Bothe, Diane Petersen, Carol Bothe, and Cynthia Bothe; sisters-in-law, Monty Biskup and Susan Bothe; and nephew Earl Petersen Jr.

A Funeral Service will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at St. Bartholomew Ev. Lutheran Church. Officiating will be Pastor Larry Seafert with private interment at Floral Gardens Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family on Monday, April 27, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Gephart Funeral Home and on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at St. Bartholomew Ev. Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be considered to wishes of the family.


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Upcoming Services

Visitation

Monday, April 27, 2026

2:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)

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Visitation

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

11:00 am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)

St. Bartholomew Ev. Lutheran Church

997 East Beaver Road, Kawkawlin, MI 48631

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Funeral Service

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Starts at 12:00 pm (Eastern time)

St. Bartholomew Ev. Lutheran Church

997 East Beaver Road, Kawkawlin, MI 48631

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

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