William James Abfalter

He was born to John and Charlotte (Wicks) Abfalter on June 10,1945 in Lansing, Michigan, attended school in Lansing and worked in skilled trades at the former Motor Wheel Corp.

Bill is survived by loving wife, Mary; daughters Tricia Casner and Tracy Abfalter; grandchildren Crickett (Andy) Ketchum, Ashten (Robert II) See, Amanda (Martin) Salazar, Travis and Tyler Rendon; great-grandchildren Shawn Ketchum, AJ (Harley) Ketchum, Hunter Ketchum, Robert See III; great-great grandson Danny Ketchum; brother John (Pauline) Abfalter, sister Mary Allen; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; son Gregory Abfalter; brothers Pete Abfalter, Roger Abfalter and Merle Abfalter; and special friends Lee Rowell & Art Esch.

Bill loved fishing, old country music and old cars. One of his favorite past times, before AMD took his eyesight, was to listen to George (The Possum) Jones while thumbing through an old car magazine. He was once the proud owner of a bright yellow 1932 Plymouth Street Rod. Bill and Mary would take it to car shows where he was in his element, talking cars endlessly.

And Bill did love to talk. He was an extrovert with a gift of gab and would talk to anyone about anything. After meeting him you were a friend. Bill was never in short supply of friends, but had a special place in his heart for his casino friends, Lee, Art, Gene & Gary; longtime friend Constantine (Ponch), and school friend Jim. Such friendships are rare.

Bill’s request was to be cremated in blue jeans & a tee shirt and wanted no service or memorial. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to any charitable organization.

Mary would like to thank the staff of U of M/Sparrow Hospital in Lansing for Bill’s care the past two months, and especially the nurses, doctors and techs in LTACH for every tender touch or word during the last two weeks of his life. Thank you also for your constant support and kindness to Mary. You are special.