William Michael Myers

“The Unexpected Bill”, formerly known as William Michael Myers, was born on July 26, 1956, in Seattle, Washington, to Fred and Theresa Myers. As the youngest of seven children, Bill grew up in a lively and close-knit family where life revolved around camping trips, music, boating adventures, and fishing excursions. Surrounded by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the warmth of a large family, Bill developed an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for the outdoors that would remain with him throughout his life.

From an early age, Bill’s love of music became clear. While attending school, he discovered a passion for the saxophone, an instrument he played with enthusiasm and pride. Over time, his musical interests expanded, and he later became an accomplished guitarist, often filling gatherings with music, laughter, and song. Whether starting up an open mic night, jamming with a music community, building and/or restoring guitars, or at home with family and friends, music was always one of the ways Bill connected with others.

In 1979, Bill met the love of his life, Meg Vangel. Their connection was immediate and enduring, and on October 4, 1980, they were married, beginning a partnership that would span more than 45 years. Shortly after their wedding, the couple settled in California, where Bill had accepted a position with Lockheed Martin. Together, Bill and Meg built a life centered on love, hard work, family, and adventure. Over the decades, they created countless memories while raising their family, traveling, supporting one another’s dreams, and embracing every opportunity life brought their way.

Around 1987, Bill and Meg returned home to Washington, where Bill began a new chapter in his career with The Boeing Company. There, he found his calling as a training instructor, combining his passion for aviation with his natural ability to teach and mentor others. Bill loved sharing his knowledge and guiding people through complex challenges with patience, humor, and encouragement. His enthusiasm for aviation was contagious, and he earned the respect and admiration of coworkers and trainees alike throughout his career.

Outside of work, Bill poured his energy into the passions and communities he loved most. He became deeply involved in hydroplane racing and was a dedicated longtime volunteer at Seattle’s Seafair celebration. His commitment and leadership within the organization eventually led him to serve as Past Commodore of the Seafair Boat Club, a role he held with pride and enthusiasm. Bill cherished the friendships, camaraderie, and excitement that came with the boating community and was always eager to lend a helping hand wherever needed.

Bill was also known as an exceptionally talented mechanic; someone family and friends could always count on when something needed fixing. Whether working on cars, boats, or just about anything with an engine, he approached every project with skill, patience, and determination. He found genuine joy in helping others, often spending long hours troubleshooting problems or teaching someone how to repair something themselves. For Bill, it was never just about fixing machines — it was about taking care of the people he loved.

Through every chapter of his life, Bill will be remembered for his adventurous heart, his generosity, his love of family and friends, and his ability to make people feel welcomed and supported. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the memories he created, and the enduring love he shared with those fortunate enough to know him.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Theresa Myers; his in-laws, Van, Vern, and Helen; his sister, Karen; and his nephew, Jason, all of whom welcomed him into Heaven. He leaves behind the love of his life and devoted wife of more than 45 years, Meg, along with his cherished children: Erin, Kevin (Aupriann), and Stephanie (Cooper). Bill was a proud and loving grandfather to Brett, Michael, Zander, Elias, Kenric, and Reece, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride. Bill is also survived by his siblings Kathy, Bob (Laurean), Diane, Rick, and Marilyn, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure the memories, laughter, guidance, and love he shared throughout his life.