MORGAN, William H., age 84, of Rochester, passed away March 21, 2014. A graduate of Michigan State University and one of its most ardent supporters, he was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served during the Korean Conflict. He began his career with Elias Brothers Restaurants as a restaurant manager, working his way from the kitchen to the executive offices by serving the company in nearly every capacity. In 2001 Bill retired as the Senior Vice President of Big Boy International and was involved in growing the company from three initial establishments to the oversight of over 700 Big Boy franchises worldwide and stadium contracts in Michigan and Ohio. A tennis enthusiast, Bill founded and co-owned the Rochester Hills Racquet Club which evolved into the Rochester Hills Tennis and Swim Club. Always a contributor to the growth and well being for the cities of Rochester and Rochester Hills, he served as the President of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Crittenton Development Council and the Greater Rochester Prayer Breakfast. He was a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, the Rochester Rotary and the Avon Players. The definition of a loyal Spartan, Bill often answered the phone, “Spartan Locker Room,” and was a season football ticket holder for over 35 years. He received the Distinguished Service Award from the MSU Alumni Association and served as a Director and Board Member of the MSU Development Council. Bill personified community and his community was large. He was quoted as saying, “When you give nobly of yourself and your time, everyone wins. People with heart make the greatest difference in our community.” Bill was the husband and best friend of Helen, his wife of 55 years, who preceded him in death on September 10, 2011. Devoted and loving father of Mary Morgan, Martha Morgan and Bill (Susan) Morgan. Cherished and respected grandfather of Ruth, Molly, Jennifer and Stephanie. Also surviving Bill are his many nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be on Wednesday, March 26, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 620 Romeo St. in Rochester. Visitation on Tuesday, March 25, 2014, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at PIXLEY FUNERAL HOME, 322 W. University Drive in downtown Rochester. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that contributions in Bill’s memory be made to “The William H. and Helen Elias Morgan Scholarship,” Scholarship Allocation Code: A20002065, Michigan State University. 632 Bogue St., N505, East Lansing, MI 48824 or to The Crittenton Foundation, 1101 W. University Dr., Rochester, MI 48307.
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