William Robert Matthews

William Robert “Billy” Matthews, age 51, of Eastport passed away unexpectedly Monday, March 16, 2015. Bill was born August 3, 1963 in Livonia to William and Sharon (Butler) Matthews. He graduated from Detroit Catholic Central in 1981 where he was active in multiple sports. And he continued his education by attending Eastern Michigan University where he played baseball.

Bill married the love of his life, Lisa Marie Worsley, on October 11, 2003 at the harbor in Elk Rapids. Many may know Bill as the Director of Culinary at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa where he has been a culinarian for over 15 years. And yet more will know him as the avid outdoorsman that he was so very passionate about. He had numerous hobbies but some of his most favorite include hunting, fishing, and golf. Understandably, cooking was very much a zealous devotion for Bill and he adored nothing more than whipping up delicious meals for family and friends at home. Furthermore, teaching others the art of his passions was his absolute dedication. True to form, there is no doubt that he is golfing with, hunting with, and feeding the masses in heaven.

He had the exceptional ability to make you smile with his antics. Whether telling a joke, throwing you one of his famous looks, singing ridiculously loud down back Resort hallways, or offering you a high five, Bill could bring his relentless energy to any situation.

Bill will be greatly missed by his parents, wife Lisa, and daughter Samantha; two siblings: Michael (Hope) of Palmer Alaska, and Kimberly (Don) Willis of Elk Rapids; god daughter Hanna; and numerous nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind many extended family, treasured kin, golf buddies, hunting companions, and incredible friends.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Saturday, March 21, 2015 at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in the Michigan Ballroom at 6:30 pm. The family requests that their guests come dressed in a golf shirt, resort apparel, and/or camouflage attire.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Antrim County High Tea in Bill's memory.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Covell Funeral Home of Elk Rapids.