I knew this young man since he was 5 years old, growing up in Lowell, Michigan, with his mother, Marilyn. I have been a family friend for almost 44 years and even though I left Michigan in 1982, I maintained contact with "Billy" and his mother throughout the years. In January 2020, due to his company's merger, Billy was terminated from his job at Tampa Ship. So, being a friend I offered to have him come stay with me in Fort Lauderdale, like the family he was. His mother was able to visit with him for almost 2 weeks before her return to Lowell. In that time we were able to walk the famed A1A Ft. Lauderdale Beach and listen to some live music performed by "street musicians". We shared some meals, home cooked and in restaurants, with a special dinner in cocelebration of his birthday on 02/15/2020 and his mother's birthday, 01/19/2020. It is my privilege and honor that I was part of his ability to leave these good memories for his mother to cherish. He may be gone, but will never be forgotten by those who knew and loved him.
Billy Mike was my cousin but more like a brother. He was so much a part ofe I lost a part of myself when I heard he was gone. He was always there when I needed him. We had so many great times together especially when he lived with me I'm Elkhart. Billy you will be missed. Until weeet again. Take care and fly high.