William Michael McGrew of Waterloo, IA passed away on Friday, July 17, 2026. He was 81 years old.

William was born on May 30, 1945 to William and Mayonette (Wagner) McGrew. He spent his childhood and much of his life growing up in Gilbertville, IA, embracing the values and sense of community for which the town is known. He proudly graduated from Don Bosco in 1963, a milestone which marked the beginning of a life filled with hard work, devotion, and joy.

A twist of fate along 4th street in the 1960s led William to meet the woman who would forever change his life. Driving his beloved 1955 Chevy, he caught sight of Elaine Bergmann in a car full of friends, and in that instant, his world shifted. With endearing confidence, William often quipped that he was going to marry her, and with a heartfelt gesture — matching sweaters and his high school graduation key necklace — their story began. Their love, so vibrantly shared and cherished, led to marriage on September 18, 1965, at St Nicholas Church in Evansdale, a union that would sustain and inspire them for nearly sixty-one years.

William dedicated most of his life to carpentry, excelling at the craft with skill and passion. His hands built more than homes; they raised a family, fostered friendships, and lent help wherever it was needed. Work was not just an obligation but a source of fulfillment for William, and those who knew him understood how deeply he valued the creation of something lasting.

Outside of his work, William found joy in many moments — dancing with Elaine, celebrating with loved ones, golfing under open skies, and enjoying the thrill of the casino. These were the experiences that colored his life and filled it with laughter, warmth, and a sense of adventure.

William was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mayonette McGrew, and his brother Larry McGrew. He is survived by the love of his life, Elaine, of Waterloo; his children, Michelle McGrew of Waterloo, Melanie Bird of Evansdale, Lisa (Steve) Knipp of Waterloo, and Troy (Darcy) McGrew of Evansdale; and his brother-in-law Frank Bergmann of Waterloo, who was always like one of the kids. William’s legacy lives on through his brothers, Robert (Deborah) McGrew, Danny McGrew, and David (Sheila) McGrew; his sisters, Patty (Mike) Schaffer, Mary (Dave) Conrad, Sue (Roger) Wildeboer, Christy (Dave) Tipton, and Kathy McGrew; as well as a large circle of family and friends whose lives he touched indelibly.

The family would like to extend a warm thank you to New Aldaya for the kind, compassionate care for William over the past years.

A lifetime of cherished memories, devoted love, and enduring friendships are the true markers of William’s remarkable journey. Per his wishes, there will be no services. He will be remembered always, loved deeply, and missed beyond measure.