Obituary of William F. Lipke

March 10, 1949 - March 9, 2025

William Franz Lipke.  Age 75 of Wyandotte.

William (Bill) F. Lipke was born in Detroit, Michigan on March 10, 1949. He was one of four children born from the union of Edward J. Lipke and Frances (nee: Dechow) Lipke. He graduated from Berkley High School in 1967 and was drafted into the United States Army in 1968. After serving this great nation during The Vietnam Conflict, Bill married Joyce Carpenter in 1972. They lived in Royal Oak where they had two children, Edward and Rachel. Bill worked for Chrysler Motor Company with distinction for over thirty years as a materials engineer. He retired in 2007. 

Bill met Joyce in Berkley while Joyce was driving with a mutual friend of Bill and cousin (Bob Dechow) who were hanging out on a porch in 1971. Bill and Joyce hit it off. Joyce’s family accepted Bill immediately. The rest, as they say, is history. The couple became well known for their love of dog friendly activities and destinations, hiking, bicycling, working out, playing competitive sports like racquetball, golf, bowling, and pickleball. They also enjoyed ballroom dancing, gardening, travel, weekend drives, and house projects of all kinds. 

They married in 1972 and resided in Royal Oak, Ortonville, Southfield, Canton, and Bill’s favorite home in Wyandotte. 

Bill loved the outdoors and absorbed all he could learn from his grandfather Frank Dechow, from participation in Boy Scouts, and from books. He was a student of the stars and gazed at the night sky wherever he lived and traveled. Bill was also an avid hunter and fisherman. 

Bill experienced so much in his life and saw much change through the years. His strong work ethic, personal code of ethics, and sense of humor remained a constant throughout his life. 

Bill was a believer in Christ with a strong Christian faith. He leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished memories, and valuable life lessons that will continue to inspire those who knew him. His presence will be deeply missed. 

Bill passed away while under the care of Elara Caring Hospice in his home surrounded by his loving family on Sunday March 9, 2025. His passing was preceded by his parents Edward and Frances Lipke; and brothers Tom, Jim, and Jay Lipke. He is survived by his his wife Joyce (nee: Carpenter), sister Lynn Stinson; son Edward (Meagan) Lipke; daughter Rachel (Charlie) Cassise; 8 grandchildren: Josiah, Brooks, Fiona, Ellia, Donnie, Bella, Gabe (Amanda) and Kelsie; great grandchildren: Ellie and Carol Anne; and many nieces and nephews. 

A committal service at Great Lakes National Cemetery will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Bill’s name may be made to Disabled American Veterans, Wyandotte Animal Shelter and/or American Cancer Society.