William Donald Carr

Age 92, of Warren, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Bill lived a long life defined by service, music, faith, and love for his family and community.

Bill was born on July 25, 1933, in Detroit, Michigan, to Harry and Viola (Pokriefke) Carr in their family home on Archdale. In 1947, he moved with his family to Warren, where he would build the life and legacy that defined him. Bill graduated from Warren High School in 1951, serving proudly as President of his class. His leadership and lifelong friendships with classmates would remain important to him throughout his life.

In 1952, Bill began working at Briggs Manufacturing Company as an Electrical Apprentice. As a member of the Naval Reserve since 1949, he was soon called to serve in the United States Navy. Following his honorable discharge, Bill returned to continue his apprenticeship and earned his certification as a Journeyman Electrician.

In 1959, Bill began a long and dedicated career with the City of Warren. He first served as an Electrical Inspector and later advanced to Zoning Inspector, then Chief Zoning Inspector, and eventually Assistant Director of the Building Department. His decades of public service reflected his commitment to the city he loved. Bill retired in 1988 after nearly 30 years with the department.

On November 7, 1953, Bill married the love of his life, Pearl Elaine Squires, his beloved “school years sweetheart.” They were married at St. Paul United Church of Christ. The couple began their life together in Centerline before settling in Warren, where they made their home for 66 years. In 2022, Bill moved to American House Park Place in Warren.

Faith was an important part of Bill’s life. He was a longtime member of St. Paul United Church of Christ where he served faithfully in many roles, including Consistory member, Lay Reader, and the person many relied upon to help solve electrical problems around the church. He was also a member of Celtic Cross Presbyterian Church for a few years before returning to St. Paul.

Bill had a lifelong love of music, particularly drumming. Over the years he shared his talent with many groups including the Warren High School Band, the City of Warren Police Band, the Wayne State University Marching Band, the U.S. Navy Drum & Bugle Corps, and the Mt. Clemens Old Crowd Band. As a Shriner with Moslem Shrine Center and member of Centerline Lodge #550 Masons, Bill proudly played drums in the Shrine Brass Band beginning in 1980.

Travel was another passion Bill shared with Pearl. Together they explored the world, visiting all 50 states and traveling to 75 countries. They also shared that love of adventure with their children, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.

Bill also held a special place in his heart for his Warren High School Class of 1951. He dedicated countless hours organizing reunions and keeping classmates connected, something he truly enjoyed throughout his life.

Above all, Bill treasured time spent with his family and friends. His kindness, steady presence, sense of humor, and willingness to help others left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Bill is survived by his loving children, Kimberly (James) Hoover and William (Robin) Carr II. He was a proud grandfather to Billy (Marisa Cannon) Carr, Brett (Joscelyn Miller) Carr, James (Cynthia) Hoover II, Sonia Ortega, Christina Ortega, Jennifer (Scott) Dulchavsky, and Jeremy (Nicole) Hoover. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Andrew Hoover, Emma Hoover, Addison Hoover, Alexis Kufta, and Kendall Kufta. He is further survived by his loving sister, Mary Ann May, along with many cherished nieces and nephews.

Bill’s legacy of dedication, service, music, and love for family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation will take place at D.S. Temrowski and Sons Funeral Home, located at 30009 Hoover Road, Warren, MI 48093, on March 17, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a funeral service scheduled for 6:00 p.m.

Visitation will resume on March 18, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a procession to Cadillac Memorial Gardens East, 38425 Garfield Rd, Clinton Township, MI 48038. A committal service will be held there at 11:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital in the William D. Carr Memorial Account or by calling 855-401-4897.

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