Wilbur F. Schleicher III, lovingly known as Bill, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2024, with his devoted wife, Grace, by his side. Bill and Grace shared 42 wonderful years together and celebrated 25 years of marriage, having tied the knot on October 2, 1999.

Bill bravely fought a 22-year battle with cardiomyopathy, waiting for a heart transplant with hope. While his journey was long, his big, loving heart is now at rest, fully healed in the presence of the Lord.

A passionate collector, Bill had a love for antiques, BB guns, and swords, and could often be found hunting for treasures at flea markets. He was a self-proclaimed cigar "aficionado" and had a big personality, always enjoying the finer things in life. Bill loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He was also an excellent cook who cherished hosting family events and holidays, where his delicious meals were always a highlight.

Bill dedicated his career to Detroit Diesel, where he was vocal about his work and proud of his connection to the UAW. If you didn't know Bill, he might take you by surprise at first with his words, but those who knew him understood the love and good intentions behind everything he said. He loved to challenge others and engage in lively conversations.

Bill cherished his long-time circle of buddies, with whom he enjoyed playing cards, watching Michigan football and Tigers baseball, and playing golf in the summer. He loved having lively conversations about current events and reflecting on their childhood memories together.

Bill had a special bond with his nieces and nephews, always being their biggest cheerleader. He was known for his humor, constantly making them laugh, and they adored his fun-loving spirit. He was truly the world's best uncle, offering advice, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to his family.

An inside joke between Bill and Grace was that she became "cool" after attending "Bill's school of cool," though it was ironic because, in truth, Grace was probably the cool one.

Bill made a lasting impression on the staff at Michigan Medicine during his 6-month stay, and his family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Nurse Kathy and the ICU team for their care and support during that time.

Bill is survived by loving wife, Grace; dear mother, Sharilyn (Dave Bullion) Schleicher-Bullion; mother-in-law, Camille Ellerhorst; brother, Bradley (Mary) Schleicher; siblings-in-law, Kamila (Jon) Younkman, Bob (Karen) Ellerhorst, and Tom (Tawny) Ellerhorst, and Tricia Schleicher; many beloved nieces and nephews, Avery Schleicher, Madison Gittings, Trevor Gittings, Bradley (Angie) Schleicher, Samantha Schleicher, Alyson Younkman, Amanda Younkman, Stacy (Corey) Budaj, Chris (Sheri) Jackson, Andrew (Terami) Cummins, Jon Ellerhorst, Megan Kolberg, Justin Ellerhorst, and Nick Ellerhorst; and great nieces and nephews, Taylor Budaj, Jenna Budaj, Aubrey Kolberg, Marah Kolberg, Nate Jackson, Cooper Jackson, Harrison Schleicher, Roryck Schleicher, and Elianna Schleicher.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, Wilbur Schleicher; his father-in-law, Harvey Ellerhorst; brother, Jeff (Tricia) Schleicher; sister-in-law, Gloria Ellerhorst; and nephew, Eric Ellerhorst.

A celebration of Bill's life will take place on Sunday, October 20, at One Under in Livonia, Michigan, 35780 Five Mile Rd # 2, Livonia. Guests are invited from 11 am - 4 pm, with a memorial service starting at 1 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association in his honor.

Please keep Bill and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.