Obituary of William O'Grady

William O'Grady was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on May 29, 1928. He was one of nine children, the son of the late John and Margaret (Young) O'Grady. William attended high school in River Rouge serving honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War, earning a Bronze Star. William married the love of his life, the former Ruth Sandy in Allen Park on April 1, 1972. The couple moved to Carleton twenty-one years ago from Flat Rock. William was a talented self-employed carpenter for many years. He built two boats, his home in Carleton, and one in Flat Rock. He was a member of the carpenter's local. William had a passion for antique cars. He had restored several Packards with his own hands. He started the River Raisin Packards Car Club, and was also a member of the Motor City Packards for thirty years. William had been on the Dan Patrick Show showcasing some of his vehicles. William's love of travel, often led him to meet other Packard clubs. William's large family was the center of his life. He was also very involved in the community and his church, Raisinville Baptist, where he was in the Men's' Club. William enjoyed sharing his time with others, and he never met a stranger. William, age 85 of Carleton, passed away on October 26, 2013. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by five brothers: Larry, Shore, Arthur, Billy Carter and Jackie O'Grady; and one sister: Laura (Lolly) Carter. To cherish his memory, William leaves his beloved wife of forty-two years: Ruth O'Grady; four children: Rick (Brenda) Brayman of Florida, Dena (Kenneth) Christunas of Newport, Sherlyn Barrett of Carleton, Jean (Lloyd) Bolin of Taylor; a brother: Wendell Carter of Allen Park; a sister: Laurel Coleman of Southgate; ten grandchildren; and twenty-two great-grandchildren. Friends and family may gather from 2:00-8:00pm, Wednesday, October 30, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185, and a Celebration of His Life at 11:00am, Thursday, October 31, 2013 also at Merkle's. Pastor George Fountain and Pastor Tony Lynn of Raisinville Baptist Church will officiate. Procession will follow to Michigan Memorial Park for entombment. Donations for those who desire are suggested to the family to assist with funeral expenses. Online guests may leave word of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.