In Memoriam: Bill Strain

William Edward “Bill” Strain, age 60, of Grand Rapids, formerly of Olive Branch, Mississippi, passed away unexpectedly at home April 3, 2021. He was born in Des Moines, Iowa on July 9, 1960, son of Claude Edward and Billie Jeanne (Treado) Strain. He graduated from Valley High School in West Des Moines, Iowa, with the class of 1978, then continued his education at Hawkeye Institute in Waterloo, Iowa, where he earned an Associate’s Degree in Photography. He married Alice Diane Fensterman in Des Moines, on Sept. 18, 1980, and she survives. Bill put his education to work in the photography profession throughout his life. He was employed at a photography lab in Memphis, Tennessee, prior to his move to Geskus Photography, which brought him to Grand Rapids, Mich. He served Geskus in Special Project Development, which required a broad set of skills to spearhead new projects and ventures such as investigating, developing and launching new product offerings and process improvements. This work required and a lot of travel and interaction with existing and prospective clients. While he was very committed to his work, he also had several pastimes including model railroading, collecting and playing guitars, fishing, photography, and gardening. His carefully manicured lawn was the envy of the neighborhood. Bill was a great person to share a conversation and cup of coffee with and his wit and personality will be missed by many.

Bill is survived by his dear wife, Diane, his sisters, Jeanne Yost of Blairsville, Georgia, and Nanci Newman of Savannah, Georgia; brothers- and sisters-in-law Darla Kickbush of Indianola, Iowa, Norman (Carol) Fensterman of Dubuque, Iowa, Marsha Fensterman of Ely, Iowa, Chuck (Marge) Fensterman of Colesburg, Iowa and John (Kathy) Fensterman of Indianola; and many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, David Fensterman.

Bill’s arrangements are not yet confirmed and will be updated to this site when determined. To learn more, please stay in touch with a member of the family or the funeral home. Verdun Family Funeral Home, in Belding, Mich., is caring for the arrangements. For additional information, please contact Verdun Family Funeral Home at (616) 794-1300 or verdunfh.com.