Obituaries

With profound love, the Cronberger family announces the passing of William “Bill” John Cronberger of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, who was called home to the Lord Almighty on November 15, 2025. He was born in Highland Park, Michigan, on February 28, 1954, to William and Mary (Petrovich) Cronberger.

William lived and raised his family in Oak Park, Michigan, working for Ford Motor Company on the assembly line and in a variety of roles at the Utica Plant until his retirement after thirty-three and a half years of service. William's love of the outdoors and affinity for the Upper Peninsula led to his and his wife's subsequent permanent move to Sault Ste. Marie, where he later worked at the Soo Locks, handling freighter lines for many years with Great Lakes Towing until his passing.

A man of great principle, William was known for his unrivaled strength, toughness, perseverance, and courage, but his infectious smile, contagious laugh, sharp wit, strong sense of humor, kindness, generosity, and selflessness best defined him. His stories were fit for legends, and he had an innate ability to leave a lasting impression on those with whom he interacted. His faith, integrity, values, work ethic, and strong moral compass guided him, and he was ever present for his family and friends.

William was always willing to help a friend or stranger in need, and to protect those unable to protect themselves. He accepted and confronted any challenge, performed everything to the best of his ability, and never quit anything.

Avid weightlifter for the entirety of his life, William’s commitment and dedication to fitness inspired many. When he wasn’t spending time with family, working, or working out, he could often be seen riding his Indian motorcycle across the Upper Peninsula.

Devoted husband and loving father, William is survived by his wife of fifty years, Christina Cronberger; sons, Jeremiah (Natalie) Cronberger, Jonathan (Laura) Cronberger, and Cody (Lisa) Cronberger; nine grandchildren, whom he cherished; brother, Alan Cronberger; sisters, Cheryl (Carl) Lisewski and Julie (Matt) Roosen; and his beloved nieces and nephews.

William was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary; and brother, Stephen Cronberger.

A Memorial Mass will be held on December 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 606 E. 4th Ave., Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.

A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will take place at a later date in Southeast Michigan, mid 2026.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to reputable organizations devoted to the fight against cancer or other cancer initiatives in his name and honor, including Cure Search - Children’s Oncology, PO Box 45781, Baltimore, MD 21297, and Camp Kesem, 440 N Barranca Ave #2273. Covina, CA 91723, among others, or consideration of such contributions to the Hospice of the E.U.P, 308 W 12th Ave, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Pickford assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.familylifefh.com.