Obituary of Willis Witmer

Willis Eugene Witmer was born November 14, 1948 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Willis and Vera Mae (Killian) Witmer. He was a graduate of Ecorse High School. Willis or "Bill" to those who knew him well married the love of his life Carol Anheuser on October 12, 1968 in Dearborn, Michigan. Bill worked as an operator in the machine shop at Haze-Lemmerz for more than eleven years. He also worked in flower delivery for JR Smith Delivery. He took a medical retirement in 2004. Bill had a passion for classic cars. He often could be found under their hood, but he truly just appreciated their beauty. One of his favorite pastimes was karaoke. He enjoyed being at the microphone and entertaining the audience. He participated in karaoke whenever he had the opportunity. He was an avid Elvis Presley buff. Bill spent many hours enthralled with Elvis music and Elvis movies. Bill shared his interests with his family and enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with them. He and Carol were blessed with the birth of four sons: Ron (Carleen) of Newport, Frank (Christine) of Taylor, Jerry (Kelly) and Tim (Schalaunda) Witmer both of Newport; and had nephew: Jack Witmer who lived in their home. From these four sons, Bill was rewarded with five grandchildren who called him Papa: Matthew, Samantha, and Shawn Witmer, Aaron Sauceda and Oscar OBrien. Bill also has three brothers: Chuck (Linda) of Flint, Jim (Sally) and Randy (Denise) both of Taylor; four sisters: Jane Gregory of Melvindale, Peg Witmer of Hamtramck, Ruth Workman of Pennsylvania, and Laura Witmer. Bill Witmer age 60 of Newport, passed away unexpectedly at 9:10pm, Saturday, February 28, 2009 at Oakwood Southshore Medical Center in Trenton. His passing was preceded by his parents, and four siblings: Floss Groth, Garry Witmer, Dick Witmer, and Wilma Witmer. Friends may call at the Ron Witmer home, 9255 Greentree in Newport on Sunday, March 8, 2009 from 2:00-7:00pm. A friend of the family Brian Potts will lead the Open House remembering Bill's life. Cremation has taken place through Southern Michigan Services in Livonia, Michigan. Arrangements were entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street, (734) 384-5185. In Lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the wishes of the Witmer family. Online words of inspiration and comfort may be made by visiting www.merklefuneralservice.com and then selecting the Life Stories page.