William John Hoerner's Obituary
William John Hoerner, 67, of Big Rapids, passed away at his home on November 24, 2024, after a long period of illness.
Bill was born to Gordon J. and Naomi K (Nikki) Hoerner on May 27, 1957, in Grand Rapids, and was a life-long resident of Big Rapids and graduate of BRHS. He is survived by his brother, Gordon Hoerner, and a niece and nephew.
Bill is best remembered as a musician and was organizing rock bands as early as 10 years of age. Bill took up guitar at 9 or 10 years old. His first band didn’t even have a name and included younger brother Gordy on drums and the Jensen brothers from across the street on bass and rhythm guitar. Don Quinn let us perform in front of Quinn’s music for Sidewalk Sale Days, and various versions of bands continued from then into the 1980’s, playing at local bars, parties and weddings, and the free concerts in Hemlock Park.
A celebration of Bill’s life and love of music will be organized soon, with some local musicians and friends at one of the local venues he used to play at often. Care and arrangements are entrusted to Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids.
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