William Roger DeBaeke

William R. DeBaeke, age 84 of Warren, died Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at his home. He was born on March 10, 1926 in Detroit, the son of the late William and the late Runetta (nee: Pomeroy) DeBaeke. William was a Millman by trade, and was employed for many years at the Groesbeck Lumber Company in Warren. He was very proud of his fraternal brotherhood in the Millmen's Local 1045, a membership he held for over 54 years. William loved to work outside, which made his career choice a perfect fit for the kind of guy he was. And of all his talents and skills in wood, finish carpentry was his expertise and where his abilities shone the most. When it came to those finishing touches, William was hard to beat. Yet, his desire for working outside was not just centered around the workplace. His talents also shined when it came to the beauty of his yard. William didn't just cut the grass,...his was "combed" with the tender-loving-care of the most consummate landscaper. His family, friends and neighbors will forever remember the pains-taking detail and nurturing that he poured into his "Field of Fame," and how important it was to him that his lawn was just perfect. When William wasn't working or busy with projects around the homestead, he enjoyed listening to music and playing cards. But of all his passions, traveling was right there near the top. He lived for the scenic adventures that molded the memories he treasured, and his travels were made even more special when shared with his two favorite groups & traveling companions; the "Sonshine Travel Club" and the "Praying Hands Travel Club." A devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend, William found his greatest treasures in each and every moment he was given to spend in their company. The legacy of love he leaves behind will be eternally remembered by all whose lives were touched by his compassion and care. William was the beloved husband of the late Therese "Gerry." He was the loving father of Mary (Rick) Bolon, Lucie (Bill) Hurst, Kathleen (Glenn) Gartling, Michelle (David) Wesner, and Mark DeBaeke. He is survived by nine grandchildren, and siblings; JoAnn Kaatz and Paul DeBaeke. Also surviving is his special friend, Dorothy Webb. Visitation for William will be held on Sunday, July 25 from 3-9pm, with a 5pm Scripture Service, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 1/2 Mile Rd) in Warren. He will lie in state on Monday from 9:00am until the time of Mass at 9:30am at St. Martin De Porres Catholic Church in Warren. Officiating the Mass will be Father Roman Pasieczny. Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan. Memorial donations are welcomed to the Multiple Sclerosis Society - Michigan Chapter, 21311 Civic Center Drive, Southfield, MI 48076 - or - the American Heart Association, 24445 Northwestern Highway, Suite 100, Southfield, MI 48075. Please share memories of William at his guest book.