Bill was born just after the stock market crash in 1929, and the world was blessed! He was a proud graduate of De La Salle High School and continued many close friendships with his classmates until his death. He went on to MSU to earn a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and was a proud Spartan and loyal fan.
The love story began in 1951 when he married the love of his life Mary Agnes Hughes. His deep love for her is evident in the love letters left behind while he served our country during the Korean War. He wrote for the Stars and Stripes newspaper and had many adventures and stories. Bill was a successful manufacturers representative for the automotive industry, but his biggest success was his role as a husband and father. He was deeply loved by his wife, children, and friends. He was always present to coach a team, take a sail, give advice, or lend a hand. Bill and Mary enjoyed many years of traveling with their family and friends.They had many adventures around the world, including their favorite place, Singapore! An avid sailor, Bill shared his love of sailing with friends and family. He participated in Port Huron to Mackinac, Southern Circuit, and ‘Tuesday Night’ races, however, his favorite sails were on Lake St. Clair with family, his dearest crew and always a Bommarito’s sub in hand!
After 57 years of marriage filled with joy, laughs, and adventures, he lost the love of his life in 2008. He carried on Mary’s legacy of loving and caring for others through his continued volunteerism and being involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren. He was always the biggest fan and supporter of all of their activities! Bill had a servant’s heart and volunteered at Beaumont Hospital for 25 years. He joyfully served as a Eucharistic minister and he also delivered meals on wheels touching the hearts everywhere. He forged many loving relationships with the crew at Beaumont. He also was a faithful parishioner at St. Joan of Arc Church for many years. Throughout his life, Bill was known for his witty sense of humor, warm personality, and infectious smile. He made everyone he met feel special.
His stories were always entertaining and sure to have the crowd laughing! Bill lived a very full life in his 91 years on Earth and his legacy is carried on by his loving family.
Bill is preceded in death by his beautiful wife Mary, his son Chris, daughter-in-law Barbara, grandson Michael Casey, and sister Patricia Giannico. This great man is survived by his children Robert, Linda, Pete (Melissa), Anne Marie (Matt) Costello, Mary (Jim) Neal, Cathy (Rick) Jones. Loved by 17 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. The funeral Mass will be Friday May, 14 at 12:00 pm at St. Joan of Arc Church 22412 Overlake St., St. Clair Shores. Rosary prior to Mass at 11:30 am.
For those who are unable to attend, the Mass can be found at livestream.stjoan.church. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Fr. Solanus Casey Center or Hospice of Michigan.
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