Pastor William "Bill" Michael Tulip, age 92, passed away March 11, 2023 in Howell. He was born on December 18, 1930, in Buffalo, New York. He was the oldest of three sons. William "Bill" grew up in the Detroit area and went on to attend Michigan State University, where he met the love of his life, Jean Tulip. They married at Hardy United Methodist Church in April 1953. They had two sons, Charles Sherman (1956) and William David (1957).

Bill did service in the Korean War. He also attended Asbury Methodist Seminary. In Kentucky, where they also pastored and were missionaries to the people of Appalachia. Later, the family moved back to Michigan, where Bill was a Guidance Counselor in New Boston-Huron and Howell Districts. He enjoyed woodworking, masonry, fishing, and stone collecting.

Bill and Jean, along with her sister, Joan Beckley, co-owned the "Churger House" Restaurant in Howell. As people grew to know them, they would meet for Bible Studies when the restaurant was closed. Eventually, the meetings moved to Hidden Springs Retreat Center, and the church began.

Bill was the father of the late Charles Sherman and William David (Valerie), proud grandfather of Joseph, Anthony, Alex, Ben, and Leslie Tulip, as well as eight great-grandchildren.

A memorial service for Bill will be held at Hidden Springs Church on Saturday, April 1st at 11 am. The family will welcome guests beginning at 10 am until the time of the service.

Contributions may be made to Hidden Springs Church to support Missions. You can leave a memory or condolence for the Tulip family on Bill's online guestbook at www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com.