William H Blackbird

William H. “Bill” Blackbird, Sr., 76, of Brockway Township joined the Creator on Friday, January 3, 2014 at home in the loving arms of Sylvia Reynaert, his companion for over 30 years.

He was born October 2, 1937 on Walpole Island, First Nation, Canada to the late Frank and Eleanor Blackbird. Bill was previously married to Lydia R. Christie who passed away January 7, 2010.

He attended Shingwauk Indian Residential School in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, later completing a Tool and Die apprenticeship in Toronto, ON. Following his apprenticeship, he owned multiple businesses where he passed his mastery of tooling on to his own apprentices and all who wished to learn.

His skills extended far beyond machining and tools into agriculture and farming. Bill’s love and appreciation for animals inspired others. Always willing to lend a hand to a stranger, he was considered by all to be a gentle, kindhearted, loving soul.

Bill was very proud and supportive of his Native heritage, working to promote prosperity and preservation for his people.

He is survived by his children, William “Bill” Blackbird, Jr. of Spartanburg SC, Andrea “Laurie” Blackbird of Clinton Township, and Alison “Kim” Blackbird-Thrane of Warren; three grandchildren; two great-grandsons; brother, Kenneth “Kenny” Blackbird of Walpole Island First Nations ON; along with several nieces and nephews.

A memorial visitation will be held from 1-5 pm Sunday, January 19, 2014 in Pollock-Randall Funeral Home, 912 Lapeer Ave, Port Huron.

Memorials for Bill may be made to the Blue Water Area Humane Society.