James W. Stryker

LTC (ret) J. William “Bill” Stryker, age 77, of Romeo, Michigan passed away on July 24, 2017. Bill was born on April 20, 1940 in Grand Rapids, MI., to Dr. John O. and Marian A. Stryker. He married Eleanor F. Stryker on September 26, 1964. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children James William II (Jennifer), Marian S. Jenkins (Richard), and Kathryn S. Greenbauer (Steve), and his grandchildren Jamie, Chloe, and Hannah Greenbauer and Joshua and Samuel Jenkins. His brothers Dr. John A. Stryker (Mary) and David P. Stryker survive. LTC Stryker was appointed to the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY by former president Gerald R. Ford and graduated in 1963. He was a highly decorated Vietnam Veteran who served his country for 23 years. LTC Stryker was also an Airborne Army Ranger. His many awards include the Combat Infantry Badge, a Bronze Star, a Defense Meritorious Service Award, Army Commendation Medal, Legion of Merit, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal , Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry w/Palm and Gold Star, and many other medals, too many to mention. After completing his graduate degree at the University of Michigan, he taught Military History at USMA West Point and co-authored one of the history text books. During his distinguished career, LTC Stryker also worked for NATO and was the Program manager for the US Army’s Heavy & Light Tactical Vehicles. Upon retirement from active duty in 1986, LTC Stryker began a career with General Motors. He was instrumental in the GM’s Mobility Program to make more vehicles handicapped accessible. LTC Stryker was also chosen to represent GM as a 2002 Olympic Torch bearer. Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being outdoors, he was an avid reader and lifelong historian. He was proud of his family and a doting grandfather. He was loved by all who knew him and will be missed. He was preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter , Gabby Greenbauer. Memorial gathering will take place on Thursday, July 27 from 3-8 PM at the Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home (11280 32 Mile Road, Romeo Michigan 48065). Services will be held on Friday July 28th, 2017 at 2:30 at St Paul's Episcopal Church 11100 32 Mile Road, Romeo Michigan.. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in Bill’s name to Misericordia Heart of Mercy. Donations can be made online at Misericordia.com or sent to Misericordia, 6300 North Ridge, Chicago IL 60660. Please reference family number 6041A