William Joseph Dowd

We are saddened to share that William Joseph Dowd, of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, passed away on February 6, 2026, at the age of 87, in Troy, Michigan, with his children by his side.

Bill was the beloved husband of Rosemary Dowd, with whom he shared 60 wonderful years of marriage. Their love story began in 1951, when Bill’s family moved into the home across the street from Rosemary’s. After years of friendship and finally working up the nerve to ask her out, the two later married in 1965, beginning a lifetime of love, partnership, and devotion.

Bill was born on March 19, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, to Earl Dowd and Helen Dowd (Dettloff). He grew up in Detroit alongside his five siblings: Jim, Betty, Earl, Ken, and Norm, and was raised in the Holy Redeemer Parish, where he attended grade school, middle school, and high school.

Bill was a hardworking man who spent his adult life providing for his family as a Teamster truck driver for Michigan Delivery in Lincoln Park. He took great pride in his work ethic and in the life he built for his family. During this time, he also earned an Associate’s degree from Henry Ford Community College going to night school.

Bill was a kind, gentle, and deeply religious man. He prayed every night, and his faith was a quiet but steady foundation throughout his life. He was also generous with his time and spirit, helping raise money for the Detroit Goodfellows Charity for several years in support of their mission to ensure no child goes without Christmas.

Bill was devoted to his family and especially loved time spent with his children and grandchildren. He coached Little League baseball for his son Jeff and was always proud of his children’s and grandchildren’s lives and accomplishments.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Bill was an avid fan of all Detroit professional teams, no matter the sport, and also followed Michigan college sports with equal passion. He also enjoyed bowling and was known as an enthusiastic and dedicated bowler.

Bill and Rosemary loved traveling together, especially taking trips to Las Vegas a couple times each year for many years. And when they couldn’t make it to Vegas, you could often find them enjoying themselves at Casino Windsor, making the most of life and their time together.

Bill gave back to his community by serving on the Dearborn Heights City Council Zoning Board, a role he valued and took seriously.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife Rosemary; his loving children Jeff (Angie) and Lisa; his cherished grandchildren Amanda, Kristin, Kallie-Anne (Jay) Krinsky, and Amelia-Grace Rockwell; his great-grandchildren Logan and Riley; and his grand-dog Eddie. He was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by many family members and friends.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 5:00 p.m. at John N. Santeiu & Son Funeral Home, 1139 Inkster Road, Garden City (between Ford Road and Cherry Hill).

Bill’s steady love, quiet faith, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.