William Joseph Higgins passed away peacefully on March 14, 2020, at the age of 92.

He was the loving husband of the late Doris; cherished father of Dan (Vickie), Mary (Larry) LaForest, David (Kim), John (Cindy), Jim, and Maureen (Michael) Gatt; devoted grandfather of Ryan (Nadia), Dani (Nick), Megan (Mike), Brad, Brendan, MacKenzie, CJ, Chelsea, Tanner, Meredith (Garrett), Nickolas (Allie), Mitchell, and Carson; caring great grandfather of Peyton, Sawyer, Max, Finn, Crosby, Quinn, Jack, and Bianca. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

William “Bill” was born on November 10, 1927, to Edward and Mary Higgins. He was the middle child of three, between brothers Edward and Donald. As he grew, Bill discovered a fondness for playing the trumpet. He excelled as a member of several bands, and he enjoyed entertaining people at weddings and other events.

Bill graduated from De La Salle High School in 1945 and went on to join the United States Army in 1946. It was in the Army that Bill was able to fully use his skills as a trumpeter. 

After returning home, Bill met Doris Eschrich and the two were married on May 5, 1951. Soon after, their family grew to include 6 children: Dan, Mary, David, John, Jim, and Maureen.

Bill advanced in his career as a Manufacturer’s Representative in the houseware and hardware industry as he and Doris raised their family. He continued his love of music, playing in small bands at clubs and weddings.

Bill and Doris enjoyed traveling, frequenting Europe and spending winters in Southwest Florida. He was an avid golfer at Edgewood Country Club for many years. Bill was blessed to have golfed in Scotland at St. Andrews-- a highlight of his life. 

Bill loved life and family. He was friendly and active staying close with his lifelong friends. Bill was also a faithful Catholic and longtime parishioner of Our Lady of Refuge.

Above all, Bill adored his family and enjoyed every opportunity to share time with them. He was a caring father, grandfather, and great grandfather who loved his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren immensely. 

Bill’s family will receive guests on Monday, March 16th, from 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. at McCabe Funeral Home, 31950 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills. A private funeral mass will be held Tuesday, March 17, 2020. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to Angela Hospice and Catholic Central High School.