William "Bill" Jacobs

William “Bill” Jacobs, age 84, of Franklin Village, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 15, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly. Whether Bill was boating on Lake St. Clair, tending to the garden with his wife Judy, or spending 19 years making "up north" memories at the family cottage on Arbutus Lake, Bill was always content in the world around him. Bill also loved to travel with his wife, family and friends to wonderful places around the world. An avid sports fan, he could often be found playing tennis or racquetball, but his true loyalty remained with his teams. A fixture at Michigan and Lions games for decades, Bill loved nothing more than watching sports with his friends or attending his grandchildren’s sporting events. Bill met his wife on a blind date and spent a lifetime honoring that love in the ups and downs of this life here on earth. We believe he is in Heaven right now because of his broken heart for his wife who passed 7 months ago. A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, Bill carried the values of discipline and dedication into his professional life as a lifelong entrepreneur. His career was spent mostly with Shell and Mobil Oil, but he also had a car rental business. Both Bill & Judy worked together in all the businesses throughout the years. Alongside his beloved wife, Judy, Bill built a legacy of hard work, teaching his children the importance of an incredible work ethic. Bill lived to help his children and grandchildren, serving as a constant source of guidance and support. You would ask for help and you could always count on him. The Grandkids loved their Papa! Bill is also remembered as a neighbor who was always there to lend a hand. Bill is survived by his devoted children, and grandchildren: Katie & Mike Bobrowski (Madeline, Lilly, Luke, Christopher), Rob & Pam Jacobs (Gabrielle, Lexi), Juliann Drew; his brother: Erv Strem (Val), as well as beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Judy Jacobs, his parents, Jean Strem and Carl Jacobs, and his sister, Arlean Kolby. The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the Autumn House of Williamsburg for the past 16 months. Your staff are truly angels on earth for the incredible care and love shown to Bill, Judy, and the entire family. A small Funeral Mass to honor Bill’s life will be held at 12:15 PM on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Christ the King Catholic Church (3801 Shore Road, Williamsburg, MI). Bill decided to become Catholic the week before he passed, so he received all his sacraments, it was so beautiful! Visitation: 11:30AM-12:00PM at the church prior to the service. Interment: A Graveside Service will be held immediately following the Mass. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Bill’s name to: Safe Harbor of Traverse City Christ The King Catholic Church Veteran’s Charity of your choice "Thank you, Dad, for always being there for us and guiding us through this part of life. We pray we see you again in Heaven with Mom. We love you and miss you!"

William "Bill" Jacobs

December 15, 1941 - March 15, 2026