William Edward Kaiser's Obituary
William Edward Kaiser, age 78, returned to his heavenly home on September 6, 2023. Born to the late Edward and Evelyn (Wobbrock) Kaiser on the 3rd of February 1945, Bill and his siblings grew in the Detroit area during the post-war boom. At age 12, tragedy struck their family when Evelyn succumbed to Cancer, leaving the kids to make their way through life without her.
Bill accepted the loss of his mother with difficulty and was unmoored for several years until one memorable day when he turned over his life to the Lord, uniting his suffering to His. Looking for a job, particularly Ford, his persistence paid off shortly after his conversion, landing a position where he consistently worked through the ranks. It was during this time that he also met his future bride, Shirley, while the two of them were enlisted in the Civil Air Patrol. Never one to sit still, Bill also attended night school for several years, keeping his mind sharp and ready for the stage in life that was to come.
Marrying Shirley in 1966, the two of them set their lives apart, living intentionally and with a youthful vigor. Together they grew their family to a little platoon of 6, adding 4 children to their union. Bill’s hard work and dedication to his craft led the family to live abroad for many years in his role as an Engineer for Ford. He lived purposefully knowing that each moment was all in service to God.
Residing downstate for most of his life, Bill was an eager Detroit sports fan. He loved to entertain family and friends at his bar, cheering on the games together. He also enjoyed spending many hours out on the golf course, suiting his appreciation for the gift of nature. Kindness oozed from Bill and he was quick to laugh, bearing peace no matter the external situation. Always active, the rare times he was convinced to sit still, he was fast asleep in minutes.
Quick to help anyone, Bill believed that love began with giving, following the example of Jesus. He was a fierce reader of the Bible and took copious notes of his own. After retirement, he took those notes and spent many hours compiling a book on the history and origins of the Bible. Bill lived each moment of his life for the Lord and died with the peace of eternal happiness. In cards and letters, Bill’s parting words implored to “Always do what’s right in the eyes of the Lord. He’ll take care of the rest.” He will be dearly missed.
Left to carry on is his bride of 57 years, Shirley; Children: Matthew (Melinda) Kaiser, Holly Kaiser, Paul Kaiser, and James Kaiser; Grandchildren: David, Sabrina, and Gabriella; Sister, Wendy Kaiser; Brothers: Timothy (Beverly) Kaiser and Thomas (Sharon) Kaiser; Aunt, Shirley Eckoff; and Nieces, Megan and Kelly.
A memorial service will take place on Friday, September 22, 2023 at 11 AM at Chapel of the Lakes Lutheran Church with Pastor Bookshaw officiating. A visitation will be held an hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to The Gideon’s ( https://www.gideons.org/donate ) , Mayo Clinic ( https://philanthropy.mayoclinic.org/donateMC ) or God’s Helping Hands. Envelopes will be available at the church.
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