William ‘Bill’ Altimore

October 03, 1948 — October 21, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our larger-than-life father, husband, grandfather, teacher, coach and friend, Bill Altimore who passed away on October 21, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of stories, laughter, and endless love.

Born on October 3, 1948, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania and later moving to Pittsburg, Bill graduated from South Hills Catholic High School in 1966. He went on to attend the University of Toledo, where he wrestled at the collegiate level and met Sharon Alderman (Gurecky). In 1969, he earned second place in the Mid-American Conference in 1969 and graduated in 1971. From athlete to educator, Bill began his lifelong passion for teaching and coaching.

In 1971, Bill and Sharon moved to Midland, Michigan, where he began teaching and coaching within the Midland Public School system. He was hired as the head wrestling coach at H.H. Dow High School, leading several individual wrestlers to state championships. Concurrently, he coached football at Jefferson Intermediate before joining the Dow High Varsity Football staff. Bill coached under Head Coach Al Quick when the team won the 1976 state championship and later under his brother, Head Coach Frank Altimore. Together, Bill and Sharon built a family and raised their three beloved children — Bill, Christine, and Jennifer.

Bill later served as Athletic Director at Carrollton High School (1991-1998), but his passion for the sidelines brought him back to the field for coaching. He went on to instill discipline and motivation in the athletes he led at Birch Run High School (1996-1997), Durand High School (1998-2002), and Swartz Creek High School (2003-2008), where he concluded his distinguished coaching career.

Retirement was an exciting new chapter for Bill. He continued mentoring young coaches and helping others build their own coaching careers. His influence reached far across the Mid-Michigan region, inspiring countless young people along the way. Additionally, Bill found a new stage—literally—joining the Owosso Community Players, where his magnetic presence shone in productions such as Miracle on 34th Street, A Christmas Story, and The Odd Couple.

Life came full circle when Bill was lucky enough to meet his partner & love in life, Patricia (Patty) Altimore and together they built a beautiful life, adding three more children to his heart — Bobby, Jamie & Jacob.

He loved football in any form — from Friday night lights to Sunday Steelers games in his recliner — morning coffee with the sports section, and a good sports radio show. He enjoyed live music, golf outings, Italian meals with friends, active snow birding in Florida, and quiet fall nights by the fire with Patty and their pups.

Bill’s personality was as genuine as it was grand. To know him was to love him. His storytelling — full of wit, energy, and heart — could make you laugh even if you’d heard the same story a hundred times before. His heart was even bigger than his laugh, and his care for others knew no bounds.

More than anything, Bill was a family man. His greatest joy came from his children and grandchildren, who filled his life with laughter, pride and love. Being “Dad” and “Grandpa” will always be his favorite roles.

Bill is survived by his brother Rick (Nancy) Altimore; his loving children Bill (Brooke) Altimore, Christine (Matt) Scalese, Jennifer (Jon) Hubbard, Bobby Badger, Jamie Badger, and Jacob Badger; and his cherished grandchildren Brody, Emersyn, Mia, Ethan, Austin, and Xander. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Pauline Altimore, and his brother, Frank Altimore.

A service to celebrate Bill’s life will take place at St. Gerard Catholic Church, 4437 W. Willow Hwy., Lansing, MI 48917, on Thursday, November 6, 2025, with visiting hours from 9:30–10:30 a.m., funeral services beginning at 10:30 a.m., and a luncheon to follow in the parish hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to https://gofund.me/3b37b9d66 as we work to establish a scholarship in Bill’s name, celebrating his passion for education and sports.

Bill leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and appreciation for life. His memory will live on in all those he touched — and we will all miss him dearly until we meet again and get to hear one of his unforgettable stories once more.

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