William E. Blalock

William Elvis Blalock, age 91 of Warren, died Friday, November 21, 2008 at his home surrounded by his loving family. William was born October 19, 1917 in Lewisburg, Tennessee the son of the late Leslie Blalock and the late Melvina (nee: Cole) Blalock. He was raised in Tennessee and moved to Michigan as a young man to seek employment. He worked for White Tower Restaurant, Budd Wheel and Cadillac Motor Car when he was first married. William was called to serve his country and served in the Navy during World War II having attained the rank of Shipfitter Third Class. He entered military service on August 17, 1943 in Detroit, and was discharged on November 7, 1945 at Great Lakes, Illinois. After his military service Mr. Blalock moved back to Tennessee with his young bride and opened his own bar and grill restaurant, however his wife became homesick and the family moved back to Michigan where Mr. Blalock would again own restaurants. For many years he owned and operated the Circle Drive-in and B&Bs Restaurant at 11 mile and Groesbeck, until his retirement in 1989. Mr. Blalock enjoyed his retirement, finally having the time to do the things he enjoyed. He spent his free time gardening, baking, making his own wine, and being with his children, grandchildren, and family down in Tennessee. William was an avid Detroit Tiger baseball fan, and also bowled until his health prevented the sport. His favorite times were spent with family and visiting Las Vegas and Tennessee. Mr. Blalock was the beloved husband of the late Barbara, and the loving father of Janet Phillips, Nanci (Dennis) Gonzales, Cynthia Blalock, Gregory (Michell), and the late Donald Blalock. He is the brother of Thomas (Joyce) Blalock, and Christine Hardison of Tennessee. Also surviving are his 6 grandchildren; Frank (Libby) Raab, Wesley Phillips, Colleen (Jay) Babbitt, Kirsten (Jeff) Gnippe, Christopher, Samantha, and 4 great-grandchildren; Jocelyn, Tristan, Bryce, Koen, and Cooper. Visitation for Mr. Blalock will be Monday from 2-9 pm, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 mile). Funeral Services will be Tuesday 11:30 am at the Funeral Home. Officiating the services will be Rev. David Hutsko. Please share memories at Mr. Blalock's guest book.