Rest in Peace Bill. I still have the photo on my desk  of  the last time I played at Mass with you at St. Marys with the Folk Group in June 2016. My only regret is I have no recordings of your wonderful voice. God must have needed a top notch canter two years ago today. The only reason he could have called you to his Kingdom. You made my life much richer having spent those five years playing together at Church. You were always so positive about everything. A inspiration to everyone who's life like mine you touched. Until we meet again.

 Al Kitzman 

Truly sad to learn of Bill's passing.  I am going to miss his smile - I could always could on seeing him at MSU for the boys or girls basketball championships.  Bill was ALWAYS a pleasure to work with and I am sad to know he departed this earth but it's heaven's gain.  

Well I had the pleasure to play guitar with him at St. Marys from 2008 until 2013. Bill was a wonderful cantor. I had asked Fr. Clarke if the folk group needed any more members.  Within ten mintues Bill was on the phone asking me to audition. He was the leader of the folk group. From our first meeting he treated me great. So for those five years I was able to stand next to him with my 12-string guitar while he sang so beautifully. Those are memories I will forever cherish. When would would rehearse before Mass. Many times as we both shared a love for their music. Bill would begin to play a Beatles song and I would join in. I have a photo from my last visit and performance with the Folk group and Bill in June 2015. It sits on my desk and everyday I would see that picture and Bill's great smile and it would be a positive feeling to me. Every now and then you meet a person who makes your life better for knowing them.. Bill is on my short list of those really special people.


 God must have been in need of a great cantor so he brought him to heaven.
 God Bless Bill's family during this difficult time. Rest in Peace my friend.


 Al Kitzman


Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Kathy, so sorry for your loss. I always thought that you and Bill were such a great couple. Both of you always smiling and fun loving. Bill had that twinkle in his eyes when I would see him. And a huge smile and a hug for me. Cherish your memories and stay strong.

We were shocked to hear of Bill’s passing.  It’s a huge  loss to his family and neighbors. He was a wonderful person, always smiling,  great stories to share, empathetic and he  certainly loved his dogs. We often met walking and seeing him clap his hands to get his dog moving, or looking at his phone as he walked, brought a smile to our faces. 

In church he was an accomplished guitar player and  singer. We loved hearing his group play and him sing. His music enhanced the service.
The neighborhood is going to be a lonelier place without Bill.  He will be missed and remembered with love and affection. 

Bill has been one of the best neighbors we've ever had.  As we've gotten to know each other through our walks with our dogs, and playing golf, we have become friends. We will miss Bill a great deal. He is truly one of the nicest men I know. My thoughts are with Kathy and Michelle.  

I had the pleasure of knowing Bill thru officiating, and enjoyed working with Bill on numerous occasions. Bill always had a sharp wit, and a great sense of humor.  He will be missed 

It was my good fortune to have worked with Bill in basketball for several years.  He always refereed for the good of the players and the game.  Never for anything or anyone else.  His tireless work for helping his officiating family by his encyclopediac rules knowledge was a wonder to behold.  His legacy will be remembered for many years.  His family is owed much by us all for the time spent officiating for the benefit of the athletes in the state of Michigan.  Well done Bill!

Kathy,

Our thoughts and prayers with all of you.  

Love,  

Steve and Chris

It was my good fortune to have worked with Bill in the Computer Services Division of MDOT years ago (in the latter 70s and early 80s) - he was always a pleasure to deal with.  My condolences to all those in his family on his early loss.  

Kathy, at age 51 my wife was informed that she was in Stage 4 of a rare cancer, that lacked any effective means of combatting it.  She lasted 6 months after receiving that diagnosis.  Take it 1 day at a time, eventually you will get on an even keel.  

The loss of Bill will be remembered on special occasions when the thought of how much he would've wanted to be present at them comes to mind. From personal experience I know that the Lord is for real, as is heaven, and that Bill will still continue to celebrate with those dear to him when they have reasons to celebrate on special occasions.

Take care, Mike Pryjmak

I had the pleasure of working with Bill at First Data.  He was  the best voice on the phone .  Always calm and professional.  His knowledge and work was outstanding.  His advice was filled with years of wisdom and kindness.   I am thankful I was able to meet him, Kathy and Michelle when they traveled to Orlando for Michelle’s school.  This loss is very sad but I will always be blessed that I knew Bill.  Peace be with us all. 

In officiating, we often refer to one another as "brothers." Bill truly was like family to me and so many others he worked with on the court, field or diamond.  He didn't have to bring peppermints to every game, nor memorize every rule book in his spare time. He did both with a smile. Thanks for Alpena, Comerica Park, lunches at the Hall of Fame and all places in between.  Thanks for being family; you'll be missed dearly. 

Bill was a happy, dedicated family man. He had a great smile with a warm, kind, caring heart. I am shocked he passed so young. I will miss him always and keep him close to my heart.  My prayers and sorrow for Kathy, Brian, Michelle and Bills family and friends.

OBITUARY

William Joseph Redmond

March 31, 1950 – September 16, 2018

Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Updates

Services