William "Bill" Hale, age 79, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2024. He was born on July 31, 1944, in Lincoln Park, Michigan, the son of the late Alice (née Dapoz) and Leo Hale.

William, a retired Mechanical Engineer for Ford Motor Company, was a proud veteran who served in Germany during the Vietnam War for the United States Army. He loved sports, playing golf, tennis, and softball throughout his life, but his true passion was hockey. He played from a young age until he was 60 and was one of the founding fathers of the Hackers Hockey League, which still operates today. Bill was also a devoted fan of the Detroit Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings.

Bill's "Happy Place" was his home in Gibraltar, Michigan, where he entertained family and friends, enjoying "Lake Life" through boating, fishing, and BBQs. He had a talent for building and fixing just about anything and was often found in his garage or basement workroom crafting with wood.

One of his most prized possessions was his 1970 Triumph motorcycle, purchased in England during his military service. He rode it all over the U.S. His children often teased him that there were more pictures of him and his motorcycle (and cars over the years) than his kids. William had a deep appreciation for machinery.

Bill is survived by his former spouse, Kathleen (nee Williamson) Hale; three beloved children, Brian James (Angela nee Trupiano) Hale, Stacey (Jeremiah Michael) Wilburn, and Tyler Jon Hale; adored grandchildren, Brielle Alice Rose Hale, Mary Kathryn Hale, Elise Lorainne Hale, Leah Elizabeth Hale, Jordan Alia (Luke Gonazales) Ramouni, Madelyn Miah Wilburn, and Elle Kathryn Hale; siblings, Elsie (nee Hale) Keskeny, Dorothy (nee Hale) Scott, John Leo Hale, sister-in-law, Beth Ellen (nee Trail) Hale; 11 nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Albert Hale.

A memorial mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Victory, 133 Orchard Drive, Northville, MI 48167, on Wednesday, February 28, at 11 am (visitation starting at 10:30 am).

Donations may be directed to Tunnel to Towers to further honor Bill's life.

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