William Robert Manchester, Jr.

William Robert Manchester, Jr., age 100, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, in Livonia, Michigan. He was born on September 9, 1924, in Detroit, Michigan, to his late parents William Robert and Clara (née Lietz) Manchester, Sr. William lived a long and fulfilling life marked by notable achievements and cherished relationships.

 Professionally, William contributed to the automotive industry serving as an engineer for the Ford Motor Company. His commitment to his work was rivaled only by service to his country. William served honorably as a B-17 pilot in the U.S. Air Force during World War II, a testament to his bravery and dedication to his country.

William embraced the values of hard work and perseverance throughout his life. His legacy is one of integrity and devotion, both in his career and to his family. Prior to her death, William was the loving husband to Mary (née Barlow) for 66 years. They were the proud parents of six children. 

 He is survived by his children, Linda (Richard) Walther, Jill Manchester, Cynthia (Eric) Matchette, Crystal (Joseph) Mazzarella, and Mary Bloedel. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Patricia (Donald) Gerbert, Richard (Ashlee Kelman) Walther, Jr., Eric (Melissa) Matchette, Jr., Alyssa (John) Piotrowski, and William (Tori) Mazzarella, Samuel Mazzarella; and his great grandchildren: Brenden (Stephanie) Walther, Maddix Gerbert, Wes Matchette, Charlie Piotrowski, and Audrey Milliman. He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters, Janet Walker and Karen (Ish) Jacobs, and his brother Dennis Manchester.

 In addition to his beloved wife Mary, William was preceded in death by his son Ronald Manchester; son-in-law Roger Bloedel; granddaughters Rachel and Sarah Bloedel; his siblings Ruth Barlow and Ronald Manchester; and brother-in-law William Barlow. 

 Visitation will take place at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth, Michigan, on Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM. A funeral service will follow on Monday, January 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM, also held at the funeral home. William will be laid to rest with a graveside service at Glen Eden Memorial Park, Livonia, Michigan, at 12:30 PM the same day.

 In honor of William and Mary’s late son Ronald, donations in memory of William Robert Manchester, Jr.  may be made to  St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 or use the link below. Contribution envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

 William Robert Manchester, Jr. leaves behind a rich legacy of love, generational wisdom, and lasting memories. He will be dearly missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.