William Ellerbruch

Bill was born September 9, 1970 in Marquette to Lawrence W. and Marion L. (Matthes) Ellerbruch, grew up in Bozeman, MT, and graduated from Negaunee High School, Class of 1989. He continued his education at Michigan Technological University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics, and later earned his Master’s Degree from Northern Michigan University. Bill began his career as a teacher in 1993 in Flat Rock, MI, and then started his longtime career with Negaunee Public Schools in 1994 where he taught various math and science classes.

Mr. Ellerbruch was a member of the Negaunee Township Fire Department, Negaunee Township EMS and UP Health System Ambulance service. He also served the Negaunee Education Association as their grievance chairperson, and was also chair on the professional negotiation team. Bill was a longtime coach at Negaunee High School in track and field, and gymnastics; and was also previously the cross-country coach at Negaunee Middle School.

In his spare time, he enjoyed running, biking, operating equipment, and loved being at the family camp on the Dead River Basin. In addition to these items, Bill and his family were largely involved with the Lake Superior Pony Club. He assisted in fundraisers for the club and was the mastermind behind their Haunted Hay Ride participation, which he greatly enjoyed.

Surviving are his wife of 31 years, Misty (Thompson) Ellerbruch; two daughters, Kelly Thomas and Jessica (Jesse) Weinfurter; four grandchildren: Dylan, Harper, Nolan and Lorelei; his parents, Lawrence and Marion; father and mother-in-law, John and Rebecca Thompson; his aunt, Marianne; and his cousin, Vicki.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert; and his uncle, Roy.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Tuesday August 13th, at the Negaunee Township Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed in Bill’s memory to Lake Superior Pony Club, 437 Co. Rd. 510, Negaunee, MI 49866.

Mr. Ellerbruch’s memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.