Thurland Billiau's Obituary
Thurland Stewart Billiau ,age 86, of Madison Heights, passed away June 4, 2012 to be reunited with his loving wife Germaine (May 15, 2012), whom he married May 8, 1948, sharing 64 years together. He was born in East Detroit, MI on April 2, 1926 to the late George William and Marion (Schmidt) Billiau,. Loving Father of Susan (Bill) Billiau, Gary (Patricia) Billiau, Michael (Carol) Billiau, Patti (Victor) Zammit, Nancy (Edwin) Clendennin and the late Robert Billiau. Also survived by grand children: Jeff (Natalie), Jon (Cristina), Jason (Jessica), Amanda, Jennifer, Adrienne (John), Justin, Christina, Jacob, Melissa, and Daniel, great grand children: Dominic, Zoe, Austin, and Giuliana, and his brother Vernon (Laura) Billiau. He is predeceased by his sister Arbutus G. Meneer. He was given his name Thurland from a friend of his parents whom worked on their house but later he preferred being called by his nick name that his co-workers gave him, “Joe”. He was a Boy Scout in his youth, and then decided to sign up for the Navy before he would possibly be drafted. Serving in the US Navy from 4/11/1944 – 5/23/1946 as a Radioman Third Class assigned to USS Athene during WW11. Receiving several ribbons for American Area Ribbon, World War 11 Victory Ribbon, Point System, Asiatic Pacific Area Ribbon – Two Stars, Philippine Liberation Ribbon. He retired from General Motors after 30 years of service. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed playing Cribbage and Pinochle with friends and family. For many years he was on a bowling league with his wife and then later with his sons. With his sons yearly bowling league he received the nick named “Thunder Joe”. Once spring would come around, he enjoyed the golfing league with his sons and golf outings with family. He also enjoyed cards, crossword puzzles and board puzzles with his grand kids along with family gatherings and boat rides. Many visits to California to see and help his daughter and also to visit with his brother. He was loved for his patience, gentleness and knowing how to repair and fix most anything. He was always willing to help with any problem. Visitation will be from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm with a service at 7:00 pm on Thursday, June 7, 2012 at Hopcroft Funeral Home, 31145 John R, Madison Heights, MI 48071.
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