Billy Joe "Bill" Wright-age 80 of Lake passed away on Monday, October 16, 2017 surrounded by his loving family, at Woodland Hospice in Mt. Pleasant. He fought a brave and courageous battle with his illness, and has met his heavenly father. Bill was born on August 27, 1937 in Carbon Hill, Alabama to parents Bertis and Ollie Mae (Pair) Wright. Bill proudly served our country with the United States Army from 1961 to 1963. He married his love Esther Sindone on February 1, 1958 in Redford Township, MI. and together they raised two children. Bill worked as a Steel Worker and was a member of United Steel Workers Local Union # 1299 retiring after 42 years of service. Bill was a devoted family man, and especially doted on his grandchildren. He could always be found coaching on the Little League fields for both baseball and football. He was the ultimate "car buff" purchasing many Fords and Chevys, both new and Classic Models. In his neighborhood he was known as the "walking man", clocking an average of 8 miles per day. He loved to play Santa along with his wife Esther, at Christmas time, and did so at many Nursing Homes and various public Christmas activities. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Esther, son Kenneth Wright and wife Linda of Brownstown, MI, daughter Helen Louise Franklin of Park City, IL, seven grandchildren; Heather Mann, Sara Wright, Brittany Wright, Chad Wright, Grant Franklin, Owen Franklin, Mia Bradley, seven great-grandchildren; Joseph, Jr, Jaxson, Alice, Holly, Erin, Aubree Mae, Aria Rose, and sister Vernell Estill of AL. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers; Alton and William Wright, and two sisters; Elizabeth Bickmann, and Quillie Covert. A funeral service is planned for Thursday October 19, 2017 at 11Am at the Campbell-Stocking Funeral Home in Farwell. Pastor Connie Bongard will officiate. Family and friends may visit on Wednesday, Oct. 18th from 4-8PM and again on Thursday from 10Am until the time of service at 11AM. Memorial considerations to Farwell United Methodist Church and to Woodland Hospice. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.CampbellStocking.com