William Bliss

William (Bill) Bliss, Jr. was born (September 7, 1944) and raised by William (Bill) Sr. and Marge Bliss (Tyo) in Cass City, Michigan and had five siblings. Bill was a loving father to Greg, Kevin, Kurt, and Todd (mother Carol Wagner) and Steven and Jessica with his wife, Kathleen. He was also a proud grandfather to Lisa, Eddie, Gunnar, Brecken, Rylee, Jackson, Rylee, Kyle, Kayleigh and Luna. Throughout his life, Bill had many unique careers that positively impacted many people and changed the world around him. While working for the Tuscola County Sheriff’s department, Bill was instrumental in setting up the security for President Nixon’s visit to Michigan and was the proud owner of presidential cufflinks, given to him during this service. For over five years, Bill risked his life while working for the Federal Undercover Narcotics Unit in Michigan. After leaving law enforcement, Bill ran security for Detroit Tiger’s Stadium, Pontiac Silverdome and the Detroit Grand Prix, while working for Burns International Security Company. Promoted to district manager of southwest region of Michigan for this company, Bill, his wife Kathleen, and children, Steven and Jessica, moved to the Kalamazoo area in 1987. Brother-in-law, Robert Vickers, and Bill formed the Ultimate Handyman company and enjoyed completing construction projects together.

Bill greatly enjoyed cooking, camping, hunting, playing the slot machines at the casinos and spending time with his family. He was a member of St. Michael Lutheran Church and the Portage Eagles. Bill treasured his wife, Kathleen, enjoyed their time together and shared the journey of his health with grace, respect and love. Bill is survived by his wife, Kathleen, sons, Greg (Tammy), Kevin (Denise), Kurt (Mari), Todd (Stacey), Steven (Rose) and daughter, Jessica. He is survived by his siblings, Barb (Jerry) Generous, Bob (Beryl) Bliss, David (Penny) Bliss, Paul (LaDonna) Bliss, Chuck (Tammy) Bliss. Bill is also survived by his ten grandchildren and many other loving family members. He was preceded in death by his parents and 1 infant son, Michael and 1infant grandchild, Dylan. Per Bill’s wishes, as an avid Michigan State University fan, his body has been donated to the MSU Willed Body Program for Medical Education. Donations in lieu of flowers can be given to: Fraternal Order of Police Michigan Foundation Childrens’ Scholarship Fund.