William Michel, III

William Michel III, known affectionately to family and friends as Bill, passed away on March 26, 2026, in Marriottsville, Maryland, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Bill was born on March 5, 1952, in Baltimore, Maryland. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

He attended Towson University, where he met his wife, Donna Michel, his lifelong partner in life and countless games of pinochle.

Bill found great joy in simple pleasures and cherished routines. Some of his favorite memories were vacationing at the beach in Ocean City with his family, where he could relax, ride the waves, play a round of mini golf and enjoy crab imperial and Dumser’s ice cream.

He was an avid fan of the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens, and he took great pride in watching and rooting for his hometown teams, as well as discussing and analyzing the season with friends. Another favorite pastime was playing pinochle with family and friends, a tradition that brought laughter, conversation, and friendly competition. He also had a deep appreciation for Italian food.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Donna Michel, and his daughter Kathleen Strawn, her husband Andrew Strawn, and beloved grandchildren Braeden, Brinleigh and Brooklyn Strawn; and daughter Victoria Windley and her husband Ron Windley.

He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He will be celebrated with a Mass on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 11:00 am in the Church of the Resurrection Chapel, 3175 Paulskirk Drive, Ellicott City, with a visiting hour preceding at 10:00 am. 

In lieu of flowers, he asked that donations be made to Animal Rescue Inc. at Maryland Line in New Freedom, PA.