William (Bill) John Hebert, age 83, of Hamilton, passed away Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, at his home surrounded by his family and loved ones.
Bill was born on July 11, 1941, in Grand Rapids to William H. and Eileen J. (Dutmers) Hebert.
He attended Catholic Central High School in Grand Rapids. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he spent 21 years of service as a radioman. He achieved the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer, serving on many aircraft carriers and ships. He finished out his career as a rural carrier for the Saugatuck Post Office.
He was very active in the community with the VFW and American Legion, participating in the Memorial Day Parade, fundraisers and Veterans Day.
Bill loved spending time with his friends and family. He enjoyed the outdoors and liked to hunt, fish (especially with his grandsons), golf, boat, feed the birds and watch them. He once nourished a baby hummingbird so that it could survive, and it came back every year to greet him.
Preceded by his parents, brothers John (Jack) R., Daniel J., and Richard (Dick) D., mother-in-law Margueritte B. Nichols and brother-in-law Gary L. Nichols.
He is survived by his wife, Cheryl L. (Nichols) Hebert; daughter Kerrie L. (Harrington) Wilkerson; grandsons Cayden J. and Cameron R. Wilkerson; siblings Thomas Hebert, Patricia (Jerry) Higgs, Margaret (Dennis) Feuerstein, Louis (Marilyn) Hebert, Mary (Keith) DeWitt; and many nieces and nephews.
Bill lived a life full of purpose, gratitude and laughter. Everywhere he went he ran into someone he knew. He leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness. His memory will continue to bring smiles to the faces of those who were blessed to have known him.
Visitation will take place at Dykstra Funeral Home in Saugatuck on Feb. 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by immediate internment with military honors. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make contributions to the local American Legion, Post 137, PO Box 596, Saugatuck, MI 49453, Corewell Health Hospice, or to your favorite charity.
