William V. Portmann

William (Bill) Victor Portmann passed away peacefully at his home on May 16, 2023. He was the son of Milton Claudius Portmann and Eleanor Catherine Hill Portmann. Bill worked at SVSU as a locksmith for over fifteen years before he retired to enjoy his two true passions, flying his simulator and playing music. Bill had many talents in life including machining and fabrication, welding, drawing and music. Every morning Bill would wake up, make himself a cup of coffee, and fly around the world on his flight simulator XPlane. After enjoying his time exploring around the world, and hopefully after a safe landing, he could be heard playing one of three bass guitars. Along with his hand-built Faulk Wolf RC plane, his bass Ruby, Helga, and Sapphire were his most prized possessions. He got his first bass guitar, Ruby, when he was in high school and never looked back. Bill taught himself how to read music and spent countless nights driving back and forth to musicals where he played his standup bass, Helga, and every so often, Ruby. Bill was well liked in the musical theater department at SVSU and had many friends from work where he played in a small group. Bill also played in many musicals for Bangor Schools theater department and Pit & Balcony theater in Saginaw. Bill was known to many as a talented musician and good friend. Among his many close musician friends he was also close with Rogue Tyson, his best friend since high school, and his neighbor, Gary Mohr. Bill is survived by his brother, Roger Portmann (Cindy) and family; sister, Barb McCoy (Joe) and family; daughter, Sarah; son, Adam Portmann (Lindsey Watch); and granddaughter, Alara. A memorial visitation will be held at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the family, c/o Adam Portmann, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.