William C. Schirado

Dr. William Charles Schirado, Ed.D., passed away peacefully on March 1, 2020 at Rose Arbor Hospice in the presence of family and friends after a four-year battle with cancer. He was born in Lansing, MI on June 14, 1946, to Leo A. and Helen R. (Herrick) Schirado. He graduated from Monsignor John A. Gabriels High School, Michigan State University (majoring in Music Therapy), and Western Michigan University earning a doctorate degree in Education. He is survived by his son, Ian M. (Kim Mack), Kalamazoo; Ian’s mother Pamela Jean Grath, Northport, MI; two other former wives, Ann Marston, East Lansing, MI and Joanna McKinney, Kalamazoo, MI; Joanna’s children Arianna, Isobel and Eveny Vigil; brothers Robert L. Schirado (Bobbi) Sparta, MI, and Craig P. Schirado (Rochelle Canty) Lansing, MI; nephews Mathew S. Schirado, Rockford, MI, and Micah R. Schirado, Kingwood, TX; friend and partner Teresa Assenzo, also the illustrator of three of his books; and by many cousins in Michigan and North Dakota. Bill worked for many years as an advocate to improve mental health for both individuals and families in his private practice, and as an educator, psychologist, author, and director of clinical services for the Calhoun County Mental Health Program. Bill also authored three rhyming books for children to help them deal with their feelings and emotions throughout their lives. Music was always a major part of Bill’s life whether he played in his own group or sat in with other bands. He enjoyed working with stained glass, painting and drawing, and remodeling his home into an amazing artistic architectural project. According to Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place, with all details ably handled by the Avink Funeral Home of Schoolcraft, Michigan. Travel conditions permitting, a celebration of Bill's life will be held at his home this summer, with dates to be determined. Memorial contributions in his name may be sent to the American Cancer Society.