William Norman Hall, age 80, of Iron Mountain, formerly of Bark River, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of family, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Bill was born on July 11, 1946, in Daggett to the late Edwin and Lois (Neville) Hall. His family lived in Stephenson before moving to Bark River in 1950, where he would spend many years building a life filled with family, friendships, and a strong sense of community. He was baptized at Salem Lutheran Church and became a member of the church. Bill graduated from Bark River-Harris High School in 1965 and proudly answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Air Force in April 1966. During his service, he was stationed at March Air Force Base in Riverside, California, and Anderson Air Force Base on Guam.

On June 21, 1969, Bill married the love of his life, Karlene L. Welk, in Riverside, California. Their marriage began a beautiful journey together that spanned 57 years. In February 1970, they returned to Bark River, where they raised their family and made their home for the next 40 years before retiring to Iron Mountain.

Bill began working at Mead Paper in March 1970 and retired on April 1, 2010, after 40 years of service. Throughout his life, he believed in giving back to his community and helping wherever he was needed. He volunteered with the Bark River Fire Department for 30 years and was a member of the Bark River Legion. After moving to Iron Mountain, he continued his commitment to serving others by volunteering at The Caring House, Maranatha Messengers, and Habitat for Humanity. His faith was an important part of his life, and he was an active member of Maranatha Assembly of God.

Above all, Bill treasured his family and the time they shared together. He loved traveling to visit his children and grandchildren, taking many Amtrak trips, exploring new places on bus trips throughout the United States, and making memories along the way. Bill had a zest for life and always seemed to have somewhere to go, someone to see, or something to do. His favorite phrase, “I've got places to go, people to see and things to do,” perfectly captured his outlook on life and his eagerness to make the most of every day.

Our beloved “Big Guy” truly enjoyed life to the fullest. Whether he was traveling, spending time with family and friends, creating special woodworking projects, tending to his garden, or enjoying another season of camping at Rivers Bend Campground, where he spent 32 wonderful years, Bill found happiness in the things he loved and the people around him. He had a generous heart and was always ready to lend a helping hand, never hesitating to share his time, talents, or kindness with anyone who needed it.

Bill will be remembered for his big heart, his love of adventure, his unwavering devotion to his family, and his willingness to help others. He lived life on his own terms, embraced every opportunity to make memories, and reminded those around him that there was always somewhere to go, someone to visit, and something worth doing. His presence filled a room, and his love filled the lives of those closest to him.

Big Guy will be deeply missed, but the memories, laughter, and love he leaves behind will remain with us always. Though his earthly journey has ended, we can picture Bill still on the go, with places to go, people to see, and things to do. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Bill leaves behind his loving wife of 57 years, Karlene, and his beloved children: Monique (Joe) Nelson of Sugar Grove, IL; Danielle Hall of Bark River; and Angelech (Mike) Joslin of Bark River. He was a cherished grandfather to Brianna (John) Tatum of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, and Caleb Nelson of Sugar Grove, IL, who brought him great joy.

He is also survived by his four brothers and two sisters: Darrell (Karen) Hall, Ocala, FL; Jim (Debbie) Hall, Bark River; Dawn Hall, Sherwood, WI; Denise (Bobby) Vazquez, Schaffer; Robby (Cathy) Hall, Bark River; and Bart (Lisa) Hall, Bark River. Along with many nieces and nephews. He will be lovingly remembered by his extended family and the many friends whose lives he touched throughout the years.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 14, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Maranatha Assembly of God in Kingsford, followed by a service and luncheon. Pastor Dave Wilton will officiate. Burial at Bark River Cemetery will take place in 2027.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Bill’s memory to The Cancer Loan Closet in Kingsford and U.P. Honor Flight.

Friends may leave condolences and tributes to Bill’s family online at www.jacobsfuneralhomes.com

The family has chosen Jacobs Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Iron Mountain, Mich., to honor Bill’s legacy of life.