William F. DeHaan

William (Bill) F. DeHaan, age 87, a retired Real Estate Broker and resident of Escanaba, MI, passed away of natural causes on August 21, 2023 at Pinecrest Medical Care Facility, surrounded by family. 

Bill is survived by his four children; his son, Peter (Marie) DeHaan of Cornell, MI, his son, David (Lori) DeHaan of Milwaukee, WI, his son, Paul (Cynthia) DeHaan of Rock Hill, SC, his daughter, Rachel (Larry) Shaw of Califon, NJ; his sister, Marcia Meulenberg of Grand Rapids, MI; 13 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. 

Granddaughter, Maggie DeHaan, had a special place in his heart as his primary caretaker for the last three years. 

He was preceded by his first wife, Fronda; and his second wife, Suzi.

Bill was born in Grand Rapids, MI, on March 3, 1936 to Bernie and Agnes DeHaan. He graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in education. 

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Escanaba Housing Commission, and Escanaba Zoning Board of Appeals. He volunteered and contributed to the Delta County Historical Society and was a Roscommon Township Treasurer.

He had a major influence in changing the face of Escanaba. Through his real estate business, he was instrumental in the development of Harbor Tower, The Delta Plaza Mall, West Highland, McDonald’s, Burger King, and Shakey’s Pizza. Miss America, Pamela Anne Eldred, dedicated Harbor Tower with him because they were both from Grand Rapids, MI.

Bill enjoyed spending time with family, loved the outdoors, had a passion for history and music, and invested his talents in community service. 

Family will greet relatives and friends from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Saturday, August 26, 2023 at First Presbyterian Church of Escanaba. The funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Jan Reed officiating. Following the service, there will be a luncheon and celebration of Bill DeHaan’s life in Westminster Hall at First Presbyterian Church. Burial will take place in the Lakeview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The First Presbyterian Church of Escanaba, MI and/or The Delta County Historical Society. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William F. DeHaan, please visit our floral store.