William A. "Bill" Blazek, age 91, of Green Bay, passed away peacefully, Thursday, February 9, 2023 with his family by his side. He was born in Town of Spruce, son of the late Anton and Lucille (Phillips) Blazek.
Bill enlisted in the US Air Force in 1951 and proudly served his country until his honorable discharge in 1955. He spoke fondly of his time in the military, sharing stories of his travels and the many planes he had the opportunity to observe on the base. Bill married Betty Christensen, May 9, 1952 in Michigan and they shared 70 years of marriage. He was employed for the majority of his career at Proctor & Gamble, retiring after 36 years.
After retiring, Bill and Betty continued their love of traveling and adventure. They visited all 50 states, the last of which was Alaska. They mutually agreed that Alaska was the most beautiful state, by far! He loved the game of baseball, playing the game in his youth and well into adulthood. He enjoyed cheering on the Brewers and his favorite games to watch were those of his grandchildren.
Bill is survived by his wife, Betty; their 4 children: Kaye (Bob) VandenBranden, Theodore Blazek, Andrew (Debbie) Blazek and Sarah (Chris) Arps; 8 grandchildren: Nathan (Vicky) and Stuart VandenBranden, Vladimir Blazek, Ivan and Caleb Blazek and Billy, Collin (fiancée, Lauren Courter) and Lillian Arps; 3 great-grandchildren: Maks and Makenna VandenBranden and Evelyn VandenBranden; 2 sisters, Patsy Swenty and Connie (Ed) Stodola and 2 brothers, Robert (Vivian) and Anton "Tony" Jr. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by a son, Randall Blazek; 2 sisters, Deloris (Gene) Rice and Shirley (John) Oleck and a brother-in-law, Leroy Swenty.
Visitation will be held at Newcomer-Green Bay Chapel (340 S. Monroe Ave., Green Bay), Friday, February 17, 2023 from 4 to 6 PM. A memorial service will follow at 6 PM with full military honors. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials directed to National Parks Conservation Association in Bill's name are appreciated.
Bill's family would like to extend their gratitude to the staffs at both Oak Park Place and Unity Hospice for their care and compassion.