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Tribute Wall
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Teri MacLean posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 23, 2018
I am so sorry for your loss. Wanted to let you know he was a great guy - I worked with him many - many years at Ford and he was always wonderful and loved his family. He will be missed
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Denise Austin posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 11, 2018
Just wanted to let you know that Bill's name came up at work today. We have a problem that was being discussed at our team mtg & someone piped up, "I wish Bill Traster was here, he would have jumped in & put down the law!" Everyone smiled and agreed. Just wanted you to know Bill is remembered very fondly and yes, I now work in his old area. I was looking for you two at Easter basket blessing and kept looking back every time someone came into church. I'm sure Bill heard my prayers that day & enjoyed everyone at work smiling at him today too. I'm so very sorry. Sending love & Prayers, Denise & Bob Austin
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Mike Mastela posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 10, 2018
Bill was the visionary force behind Ford's current security posture, he was a true leader in every sense of the word, a leader with unwavering principles and an amazing sense of humor. His presence at Ford has been missed since he retired and his guidance missed. I regret not working with him sooner but the time I spend with Bill had a positive impact on my professional career both in and outside Ford, I will miss him and Ford security certainly is not better off by his absence.
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John Ang posted a condolence
Monday, April 9, 2018
I have just heard about this news last Friday and I am so sad that I wasn't able to visit him or go to his funeral. He is one of the most loving person I ever encountered in my life. Always available to provide help, any kind of help (emotional, spiritual, work related). He was my manager and one of the very best! I will dearly miss him and will always remember him.
My prayers to his wife and kids, may Christ grant you love and peace. Knowing Bill, he is with Christ right now praying for you!
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Chad Childers posted a condolence
Monday, April 9, 2018
Bill was very important to us... he took care of his people, was a leader, an example, a mentor, someone you could depend on, talk to, a good man, and a friend. Bill was the best department manager I ever had, beyond any question. I miss him, and I know I'm not alone.
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Roz Everett posted a condolence
Thursday, April 5, 2018
A great guy gone far too soon. I will never forget how much Bill
loved Red Velvet cake. I would convince him to take a slice and he would debate whether he would eat it or take it home to Michelle ;-). Bill had so much love and pride for his wife and children. I hate that he didn’t have more time to enjoy his well deserved retirement to hunt and spend with his family. Rest In Peace, Bill.
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Art Zasadny posted a condolence
Thursday, April 5, 2018
Bill was one of my mentors at Ford and he was a gentleman, teacher and friend. I will miss his sense of humor and candid advice. I'm shocked and saddened and will hold your family in my prayers.
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Lisa Wetzen posted a condolence
Thursday, April 5, 2018
I'm so very sorry to hear of Bill's passing. I worked with Bill over the course of many years and always appreciated his candor and professionalism. And he was always good for a laugh!
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Cindy rothacker pledged to donate to Henry Ford Hermelin Brain Tumor Center
Thursday, April 5, 2018
In memory of Bill Traster
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Donna Dowd lit a candle
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
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Bill you left a lasting and positive impression on myself and so many others here at Ford. I will treasure memories of our chats. Rest in peace.
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Bobbi Audette posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
Michele my heart breaks for you. I really can't find words to express my sadness over your loss. I'm always available for a long hug, even if I have to drive far to give it, or anything else you may need. I'm so, so incredibly sorry.
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Michael Durand pledged to donate to Henry Ford Hermelin Brain Tumor Center
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
In loving memory of Bill Traster.
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Mark Wilson lit a candle
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
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It was a privilege and a pleasure to work with Bill at Ford. Any help or advice I ever needed on security matters was always there. Rest in Peace my friend. Love to all your family. Mark
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Pam Horner lit a candle
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
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Pamela Ames pledged to donate to Henry Ford Hermelin Brain Tumor Center
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
I have no words for your loss, except to take comfort in Faith, Friends & Family. Prayers and love.
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Kenneth Szczerba posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
Dear Michele & Family – I was very saddened to learn of Bill's passing. You have my deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers. My last assignment at Ford before my retirement was working with Bill. He was a tremendous help to me personally, professionally and was always the calm voice of reason when things got crazy.
Rest in peace William, you left the world a better place!
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Patty and Bob Prueitt and Family lit a candle
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
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So very sorry my heart hurts for all of you.
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Barb christner lit a candle
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
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Nicola Blackman uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
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Bill, in honor of the arty, warty, ones. RIP, Nicola and Uma
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Nicola Blackman posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Hello Michele,
I'm sorry I never had the pleasure of meeting you in person, but I do know that Bill loved you dearly.
In 2005 was auditioning red velvet cake recipes for my Easter dinner. He indicated before the two of you were married you made dinner, red velvet cake was the dessert. It became a favorite. Bill's knowledge saved me hours of frustration. When I mentioned that the cakes just weren't chocolatey enough Bill said they never are, Red Velvet is not flavored like the typical chocolate cake. I stopped auditioning immediately!
Me and Uma Arjunan another Ford co-worker were often the recipients of Bill's generous donation of pumpkins and squashes. He understood when we told him that we LOVED the arty, warty and drunken pumpkins. He was ahead of his time on that front.
Bill's obituary really captures the essence of a good man. The Earth is sadder for this loss and I know Heaven is happy to have his skills.
During this difficult time I hope you and your family can take comfort reading the many tributes for Bill.
With Prayers,
Nicola Blackman
Uma Arjunan
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Rita Grace Williams posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
To Michele, Jessica, Alex:
You have my heartfelt condolences in the passing of your loved one. Bill was my Ford Motor Company colleague, friend and mentor. It was there I came to know him as a fair, firm, and a loving person. He was a gentleman. We went our separate ways from the General Auditor's Office; but we reconnected when he went to IT Security and I went to Internal Control. He always had time for me; he shared his knowledge, seminar books and IT pubs with me. He even explained how a Septic System worked!!!! He was that kind of guy.
Bill always spoke fondly of his family; although I never met Jessica and Alex, I knew them through Bill. Michele, you probably won't remember me, but I popped in to see you a few times (longtime ago) at Regent Court.
I just wanted to share a little support and memories; I hope you are comforted and that the memories that Bill's friends and colleagues have shared will bring a smile to you in days, months and years to come.
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted..." Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
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Rose Calleja posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
I am saddened to hear of Bill’s passing and my thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. Bill was one of the good guys at Ford and I had the pleasure of working with him for a few years.
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Greg Tilley posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Michelle,
Sincere condolences to you and your family. Bill was a mentor, trusted colleague and friend to me and just about everyone in IT at Ford. He took me under his wing when I went to the security group and treated me as an equal even though I was far from that. But that's how he treated everyone. We all knew he knew more than us, but he never acted that way. He will be missed by more people than you can imagine. We had numerous talks before and after retirement and I know he really cherished the time with his family, his friends and his hobbies. So sorry it was cut short. Please know you are in my prayers.
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Jeffrey Wang pledged to donate to Henry Ford Hermelin Brain Tumor Center
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
I am so sad to loose you. Your warm heart and big smiles stay with us forever. RIP.
Jeff Wang
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Peter Lubas posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
My deepest condolences to the Traster family, and it was a great pleasure to have known Bill. Rest in Peace.
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Deborah Bruni posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart aches for the pain all of you are feeling. I am praying for each and everyone of you. Uncle Bill and Aunt Barb, can't even imagine your heartache. I will keep you in my prayers. Love Debbie Bruni
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Karen Wahl posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Michele, Jessica and Alex - Scott and I are deeply saddened by Bill's passing. He spoke of all of you so fondly and so often...I was one of the many fortunate IT folks at Ford to spend time with Bill. He always made time - to teach, to share, always focused on "doing the right thing" and encouraging others to do the same. He was also a great friend and supporter outside work. If it wasn't for Bill, we wouldn't be living in our current home. Thanks to our Newport neighbor, his knowledge and advice, we're enjoying deer, swans, pheasants, (all for viewing only) and many other peaceful pleasures on our property. We wish you peace to bring comfort and courage for the difficult days ahead.
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Finhas Hasan posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Bill was an awesome person that helped many at Ford. It was a pleasure to work for you - we will all miss you.
Condolences to the Traster family.
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Brett James-McCall posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Bill, so saddened to hear that you have been taken too early from us. Thank you for all your time and learning/coaching you did for me in Ford, it is still truly appreciated to this day. I'll fondly remember our phone calls and the first time when we actually got to meet face to face when you couldn't stop laughing as I went to get out of your F150 thinking it was a car in the UK and fell flat on my face. RIP
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Francois Raymond posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Bill was a wonderful person to be around. At work, he was someone who was always available and eager to help others. A truly exemplary leader. My sincere condolences.
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Isaiah Branch lit a candle
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
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David Simcox posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Bill, Truly sad that you were taken too soon from your well earned retirement. Your integrity made you the ideal fit for IT Security; I always enjoyed our (protracted) discussions on risk. Your rich supply of anecdotes help make things real, and the Waldorf and Statler act helped lighten the training. You will truly be missed.
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Ricardo Cordeiro posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
In these moments of loss, words are useless. God rest his soul in peace.
My condolences to the family.
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Stephanie Scheuermann purchased flowers
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
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Jennifer Gerlach posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Let me extend my deepest sympathies to the Traster family, and to all of the lives Bill touched, which was many. Ford IT was a better place because Bill Traster was in it. May God bring you and your family peace and love during this difficult time.
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Philip Adcock posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Bill, you were my first Manager when I became a manger myself in the UK back in 1997 and a friend ever since. The theme of all the tributes is about your integrity, strength of convictions and friendship. I would like to add "wiseness" to that list. Up until the very last time I saw you last year when visiting, your ability to cut through all the complexities and noise in any situation and get to the heart of the matter with an unswerving focus on what was "right" was second to none. We will all miss you but your impact will never be lost.
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Amy Raub lit a candle
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
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Carolina Pluszczynski posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
It was such a pleasure to have known and worked with Bill. Rest In Peace.
With deepest sympathies, Carolina Pluszczynski
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Patrice & Patrick Figurski posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
Having been Michele's job share partner at Ford for 11 years, both Pat & I came to know Bill very well and I know how dedicated and loving he was to both Michele and his children. He had so much passion for life and I was witness to the true partnership that him and Michele had from sharing our personal life adventures. I know how much he looked forward to retiring and being able to spend time pursuing his hobbies and saddened that his life was cut short at such a young age. We would always tell him that he should be working at Cabela's in his retirement because of his love of hunting.
I know how dedicated he was as an IT Security Manager and always was available to help anyone at the drop of a hat without any complaints. He was a trusted advisor and leader who always did whatever it took even if it meant him rolling up his sleeves to help get the work done.
Michele - I know your heart is broken and hope that all your wonderful memories of your marriage will always be in your thoughts as you go through the weeks and months ahead. Alex & Jessica - Your dad was so proud of all that both of you have achieved in life and his work ethic lives on in both of you.
Prayers & Thoughts are with all of you, Patrick & Patrice Figurski
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Uma Arjunan lit a candle
Monday, April 2, 2018
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Tom Truden posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
I first met Bill in 1998 as my supervisor in the fledging Ford IT Security group. Our team was only supposed to exist for 18 months to fix mainframe audit issues, and then we were supposed to fade away after everything was "fixed". Needless to say, we never ran out of issues to manage. Bill was the best boss I ever had – he had very high standards, was always a great encouragement, and showed leadership and integrity. I'm proud to say he was my mentor and friend. I will miss him very much.
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Larry Cannell posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
I sat close to Bill’s desk at Ford 1999-2002. On a personal level, Bill was funny, engaging and always offered words of encouragement to colleagues. Professionally, Bill was an IT security visionary, mentor and teacher. To this day, there are times when I recall Bill’s advice and hear his voice in my head.
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David Soubly lit a candle
Monday, April 2, 2018
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Bill - what a tower you were in IT Security at Ford. You always stood your ground on what mattered, and you were a great leader as well. You helped develop many people through chairing the personnel development group for Ford IT Security. You also counseled me on when to make the decision for retirement. Thanks for all the years at Ford and shared moments after as well. You will be missed!
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Letitia Davis posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
Bill was the person who hired me into Ford. He was a great boss to work for. He was very smart and had a way of getting things done. I will always be grateful for the opportunity he gave me and starting my career at Ford. He was really nice to me bringing me deer meat or my favorite rabbit when he would go on his various hunting trips. He was always looking out for the team and made us feel like family..
Bill was a trailblazer for IT Security and his vision lives on through the efforts and work being done today. Bill will be truly missed by his Ford family but his legacy of true leadership will remain. My thoughts and encouragement to his family and all the lives he touched.
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Marcy Klevorn posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
We were so saddened to hear of Bill’s passing. Bill was the role model of Ford integrity and always doing the right thing. I had the pleasure to also work with Michele and they were the perfect complement to each other and both standing for values, family and embracing life. Bill, rest in the peace you so dearly deserve. Michele, sending you peace and love. Marcy and Scott Klevorn
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Cindy Watson posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
Bill was a great and inspirational man at a ford. And I enjoyed exchanging deer hunting stories with him. I am so sorry for his loss.
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Jamie DeBiasi posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
My sincere condolences to Michele, Jessica, and Alex. Bill’s dedication to his family was an inspiration to us all. I deeply regret not being able to attend the services since i am out of town. Although im not able to be with you i felt compelled to let you know how much Bill touched my life. Because of Bill, i became a Ford employee in 2002. This was a direct result of Bill’s belief in me and him fighting for me. I am forever grateful for this. Bill and i further connected through our love for the outdoors and hunting. I starting hunting the year i met Bill. It became a passion we shared through stories, lessons, recipes, property searches, to me eventually buying hunting property just 1/2 hour from his. We attended seminars, haggled on Craigslist for four wheelers, and shared many articles. I’ll miss opening day and the many text messages we would share throughout the day. My favorite memory is from a crisp October morning when i arrowed my first buck. It wasn’t the best shot and I immediately called Bill. I’m guessing Michele remembers this too as it was 8am on a Sunday morning. I figured Bill would be up by then. Well, not really but he was after i called, and so was Michele. After explaining the situation and listening to his advice i waited 20 minutes and called again. Sorry Michele :). It was one of the most awesome moments of my life and from the very beginning of my hunting career to the time i bagged the best deer of my life, Bill was there coaching, inspiring, encouraging, and sharing in the moment. Im not Ted Nugent, but Bill is my Fred Bear. The point of all this is that we all have stories about how Bill touched us. He touched a lot of lives in a positive way and it was an honor to have been a part of his story.
Jamie DeBiasi
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John Fenner lit a candle
Monday, April 2, 2018
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As one who worked for Bill at Ford, I want to express my condolences and say we will miss him.
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Randy, Adonna & Joshua Wright posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
Lisa,
Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family.
May God give you the peace that you seek.
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Kaitlin Starosta purchased flowers
Monday, April 2, 2018
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Steve Minch posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
So saddened to hear that Bill lost his battle. I knew Bill for many years at Ford, and valued his input, but I got to know him more after he retired, and we discovered our shared passion for deer hunting. He hunted nearby, so we stayed in touch, texting often during the hunting season, comparing notes, sharing old stories and telling new ones as the hunt progressed. We shared a lot of stories, laughs, and even met him and Alex up there one time and they shared some pumpkins with me for my deer. I will really miss him this coming fall.
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Gerald Ottenbreit Sr purchased flowers
Monday, April 2, 2018
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Keith Forte posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Michele and your family during this very difficult time. Bill my friend – you will truly be missed. I am very sadden but at the same time honored to have had you as a friend. We may have met at Ford Credit many years ago, but it is our times outside of the workplace that will never be forgotten. Whether it be after work softball or the “Family and Friends” bowling league or better yet, our favorite “water cooler discussion” hunting and the sharing of our stories and pictures – these are all the things I will cherish forever! Rest in Peace my dear friend.
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Colleen Farmer lit a candle
Monday, April 2, 2018
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Mike & Kristin Durand posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
May the loving memories of how Bill touched everyone's life be with you forever. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time.
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Martin Wolfertz posted a condolence
Monday, April 2, 2018
This is a very sad loss for everyone who had the pleasure to know Bill. I had the privilege to work closely with him from my arrival in the US in 1997 until we both retired in 2016. He always was supportive, friendly, and constructive, while being firm in his values and his standards. He made me feel welcome in the US and comfortable with his subject matter which could have been daunting without his help.
Rest in peace.
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Babu M lit a candle
Monday, April 2, 2018
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Bill, you motivated us and has always been there to support us. Very sad to know that you left this world. May your soul rest in peace. God Bless!
Babu M
Ford Ex-colleague, India.
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Yvonne M Roll posted a condolence
Sunday, April 1, 2018
Truly sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers
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John Elek posted a condolence
Sunday, April 1, 2018
As a Ford IT employee, I had the pleasure of working with both Bill and Michele for a short time. I was always impressed by their work and family values. I'm thankful I got to see them both briefly at another colleague's retirement last year. Michele, my deepest sympathies. I'm so sorry to hear this news. May God Rest his soul in peace.
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Rama Kamat posted a condolence
Sunday, April 1, 2018
My thoughts and prayers are with the Traster family at this time. Bill was a good friend, mentor, the best boss, great leader and most of all an exceptional human being. I was able to connect up with him after his initial diagnosis. His faith and spirit were remarkable even then. He leaves a hole in the lives of everyone he touched.
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Lori Ryba posted a symbolic gesture
Sunday, April 1, 2018
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Dear Michele, Jessica, and Alexander,
I had the privilege of working with your husband and father and learned so much from him both ithrough his strong work ethic and knowledge about security systems. He was a very special person and will be missed by many. I’m so very sorry for your loss and this difficult time ahead please know you have many of us here praying for you and your family. God bless you with continued faith.
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Rama Kamat donated to HINDU TEMPLE
Sunday, April 1, 2018
In memory of Bill Traster, a wonderful friend, leader and an exceptional human being.
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Steve Paschen posted a condolence
Sunday, April 1, 2018
I will miss one of my first friends when I started work at Ford Credit in 1982. Paulette and I were so happy to have him stand up in our wedding where he caught the garter and Michelle caught the bouquet before they were married almost a year later! His sense of humor and smile were hard to ignore. Bill was a great friend and colleague and I was happy to have had the chance to chat with him a couple of times after our retirements and after his initial diagnosis. Rest in Peace my friend.
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jerry and mary raymor posted a condolence
Sunday, April 1, 2018
I worked with Bill most of my Ford life and can attest that Bill was extremely intelligent and an outstanding technical expert, as well as a insightful information technology security analyst/manager. He was a joy to work with and was very patient with everyone he worked with. Most Ford persons looked up to Bill and relied on his wisdom for decision making. Personally he was a good friend which I dearly cherished. I will miss him so much and this earth will be at loss without him.
We love Michele and Bill so very much ........we are saddened beyond belief.
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Steve Paschen purchased flowers
Saturday, March 31, 2018
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Barbara Gildersleeve purchased flowers
Saturday, March 31, 2018
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Pam Smith lit a candle
Saturday, March 31, 2018
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You're light will shine brightly on all of us until we meet again....
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Eric and Beverly Hoffman lit a candle
Saturday, March 31, 2018
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Our thoughts are with all of you.
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The family of William "Bill" Lee Traster uploaded a photo
Saturday, March 31, 2018
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Connie McGinnis posted a condolence
Saturday, March 31, 2018
There is a special place in our hearts for the one we call "brother".
Brothers are such special people, to have had one is a gift. They are so much of who we are, and how we act and feel; what joy we have from knowing we were a part of them. Your brother lived a faith-filled life and was an inspiration to all of us who knew him. I feel blessed to have known your brother. The days ahead will be difficult without him, but we must use our faith to give us strength and hope. I pray that God will comfort you all and keep you in his embrace. RIP Billy!!
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