Willard William Bach

Willard W. Bach was born September 20, 1934 in Detroit , Michigan. Affectionally know to his friends and family as Wil, he spent his early years in the city known as East Detroit a suburb of Detroit. As a young person he became a proficient violinist, ultimately gaining notoriety by playing in classical groups and orchestras in the United States and Canada. One of his memorable performances was to play for Henry Ford at his estate. He graduated from the Detroit Conservatory of Music the same year he graduated from high school. During high school he became interested in cars and had an earlier 1947 Ford Convertible which was his pride and joy. His long time friend, Tom O'Conner, noted his meticulous nature which sometimes included washing the white walls 3 or 4 times a day. Shortly after graduating from high school he met the Homecoming Queen from East Detroit High School, Berni Boshaw, who ultimately became his Bride. The marriage lasted for 59 years until his recent passing. Wil entered college and began pursing a technical Associates Degree after which he became a chemistry major at Wayne State University in Detroit. In 1955 Wil joined General Motors Research Laboratories at the Warren, Michigan Technical Center where he began a career in metallurgical engineering. He was involved in various research efforts during a 36 year tenure at the Laboratories and was awarded two patents for projects warranted to be worthy of that honor. In the later years with the research organization Wil became involved with the computer transitions which were occurring throughout the industry. He remained with General Motors until his retirement in 1991. He served with the United States Navy Reserve stationed in Detroit for 8 years and had the opportunity to travel to Cuba, and San Diego during his time in the service to his Country. Wil and Berni were active partners for their entire married life and had a passion for many exciting pastimes. They were sailors, certified scuba divers, and inveterate travelers. Some of the happiest times were spent sailing their Gulfstar 37 in the British Virgin Islands or taking trips for 25 years with the Nomads all over the world. (A Detroit based private travel Club with their own planes) Wil leaves a legacy of interesting life style experiences for his friends and family to remember ………..A true friend, devoted companion, expert in all his pursuits. He will be missed !!! An Informal Memorial Gathering will occur at the Farley Funeral Home 265 S. Nokomis Avenue Venice, FL 34285 Wednesday, June 17,2015 from 2 to 4 PM There will be no formal ceremony or tributes. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimers Association or a favorite charity.