Billy Dewrock Sr.

BURTON, Mich. — Billy Joe Dewrock Sr. of Burton and formerly of Ortonville, Michigan, passed away Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at his home. He was 86 years old.

He was born July 12, 1937, just outside Cape Girardeau. He married the love of his life, Judith Ann Goehman, on Nov. 25, 1956.

Together, they raised four children: Billy "Joe" (Sandy) Dewrock Jr. of Flint, Michigan; Melissa "Lisa" (Robert "Bob") Farrar of Cape Girardeau; Paula Dewrock of Flint; and Terry (Mary) Dewrock of Burton. Other survivors include grandchildren, Billy II (Nicole) Dewrock, Bobbie Dewrock, Brandi (Dale) Miller, Jacob Hoover, Brandon (Christy) Rice, Donald "Donny" (Danielle) Rice, Dillon Farrar, Janella (Travis Gockel) Farrar and Stevie Marie Holman; 23 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Billy was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Judith "Judy" Ann Goehman Dewrock; both his parents, Clarence and Ethel Wright Dewrock; and — except for one brother, Clete (Charlotte) Winchester — all his siblings and their spouses.

Even though Billy was raised in Missouri, he migrated to Michigan in 1967. In 1970, he and his family settled down in Ortonville, where he and Judy lived until his retirement in 1994.

Billy was a member of the Michigan Carpenters Union. He spent the majority of his time in Michigan, working on bridges, both construction and demolition. When Billy retired, he and Judy moved home to Missouri. However, after several years there, they made the move back to Michigan to be near their children and grandchildren.

When Billy was younger, he enjoyed many outdoor adventures, such as fishing and hunting. He loved playing sports, but his first loyalty was always to his family. He attended every game, event, outing, recital, concert, etc. He volunteered with Brandon Sports Boosters, both while his children were active as well as after they had graduated. Billy was a die-hard St. Louis Cardinals fan, as well as a supporter of all the Michigan teams (when not playing against the Cardinals).

Billy was loved by so many and will be missed by all who knew him. He impacted so many lives, not only with his kindness and generosity, but with his unwavering love and support. Billy had a wonderful, fun-loving, funny personality that was appreciated by all. He made everyone feel at home.

Plans for a small, intimate gathering to celebrate Billy will be announced at a later date.

Heaven has truly gained a beautiful human being. Even though his death was unexpected, his family believes he and Judy are together once again, as they should be, and for that they are grateful.

Village Funeral Home in Ortonville is in charge of arrangements.

To send a condolence to the family, please visit www.villagefh.com.