William G. Oldford

William (Bill) Gordon Oldford Sr. died June 19, 2025, at 96 years old. Bill was born in Detroit, Michigan on February 20, 1929, to Stephen E. and Clara B. (Hallett) Oldford. He lived in the Detroit area until 1942, after which he transferred to Lexington High School. He graduated with honors in 1946. He was a member of The Trinity Episcopal Church. Bill married Marylou Shipley in 1950, and they had two daughters, Barbara and Betty. In 1963, he married Phyllis Baska, and they had two children, Kathleen and William Jr. Bill took considerable pride in his Newfoundland ancestry, often stating, "Everyone in Newfoundland were hard workers and builders, and my father and mother passed that down to me." This philosophy was clearly reflected in his life and accomplishments. During his youth, Bill engaged in various activities such as hunting, fishing, skiing, attending auctions, and working on projects in his barn. He was also a committed community leader and supporter throughout his life. In 1952, he became a master mason and a lifetime member of Lexington Lodge 61. By 1958, together with his brother Eugene, they acquired Huron Tool (Huron, Inc) from their father, successfully growing it into one of the largest employers in the area. Bill served on the Croswell-Lexington School Board, the Lexington Township Zoning Board, the Rotary International and multiple committees at Trinity Episcopal Church. He was an advocate for Project Blessing, opened the Windjammer in 1971, and built Oldford’s Marina in 1984. His involvement extended to the Boy Scouts of America, where he held various positions at local, state, and national levels. Remarkably, well into his eighties, he continued to serve on the Lexington Village Board. Bill loved his family unconditionally. He found his greatest joy spending time with his children and grandchildren, always cherishing the moments they shared together. His love and guidance were felt by all, and his unwavering support was constant in their lives. He is survived by his daughter Kathleen Oldford-Johansen (Gwen Varney), son William Oldford Jr. (AnnMarie), and son-in-law William Edwards. His grandchildren are MaryLynn Edwards, Elizabeth Vernon (Erik), Hans Johansen (Jessica Roth), Merrick Johansen (Taylor), Kierstin Johansen (William Beiersdorf), William Oldford III, and Victoria Oldford. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren Henry and Theo Vernon, his sisters-in-law Edwina McKee and Betty Cain, many cherished nieces and nephews, and close friends Tom Constantineau and Jean Wilson. He was predeceased by his parents, his wives Marylou and Phyllis Oldford, his daughters Barbara and BettyLou, his son-in-law Dana Johansen, his brother Eugene (Sandy) Oldford, his in-laws Fred (Christine) Baska, Charles (Rosemary) Dazer. His family thanks the staff at Mercy Village, Lakeshore Woods and nurse Teri of Harmony Cares Hospice for their excellent care and compassion. They extend special gratitude to Emily Macey for her exceptional care and dedication to our father in his later years. Additionally, they thank Steve Baska, Dennis/Sandy Dazer, Sue Zappa and Laurie Oldford for their unwavering support. A memorial service will take place at the Trinity Episcopal Church in Lexington, Michigan on August 29th. Visitation starts at 9am, the memorial service at 10am, followed by a graveside service. In Lieu of Flowers, Memorials may be made to the Saint Clair County Foundation, for the Steven E. and Clara B. Oldford Scholarship Foundation Fund. 810-984-4761. www.stclairfoundation.org

William G. Oldford

February 20, 1929 - June 19, 2025