Longtime Troy/Rochester Hills Resident William Barnard Passes Away at 92

Barnard, a Navy veteran and longtime electrical contractor, was known for his love of music, golf, and devotion to family.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:46pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, impressionistic scene of a family gathered around a table, their faces and details obscured in a warm, soft-focus blur of color and light, conveying a sense of intimacy and celebration.The vibrant memories and cherished traditions of the Barnard family will endure long after Bill's passing.Today in Detroit

William 'Bill' Edward Barnard, a longtime resident of Troy/Rochester Hills, Michigan, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on March 28, 2026 after a short illness. Barnard was born in Detroit in 1933 and served in the Navy from 1953-1957 before starting his own electrical contracting business, Barnard and Johnson Electric. He was known for his love of music, golf, and deep devotion to his family, including his wife of 65 years, Mary, and their three children, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Barnard's passing marks the end of an era for the Troy/Rochester Hills community, where he was a well-known and beloved figure. As a longtime small business owner, youth sports sponsor, and active member of the community, Barnard's life exemplified the values and traditions that have defined the region for generations.

The details

After his military service, Barnard started his own electrical contracting business, Barnard and Johnson Electric, which he ran for many years. In addition to his work, Barnard was an avid golfer and longtime sponsor of youth hockey teams through the Royal Oak Hockey Association. He and his wife Mary were also active members of several social clubs in the area, including the Great Oaks Country Club in Rochester Hills and the Meadows Country Club in Sarasota, Florida, where they spent their winters.

  • Barnard was born on June 3, 1933 in Detroit, Michigan.
  • He served in the Navy from 1953-1957.
  • Barnard married his childhood sweetheart, Mary McNally, in 1954.
  • Barnard passed away on March 28, 2026 at the age of 92.

The players

William 'Bill' Edward Barnard

A 92-year-old longtime resident of Troy/Rochester Hills, Michigan who passed away on March 28, 2026. Barnard was a Navy veteran, electrical contractor, and active member of the local community.

Mary McNally Barnard

Barnard's wife of 65 years, with whom he shared a lifelong love and many cherished memories.

Roberta Gluth

Barnard's sister.

Kelly Tomaszewski

Barnard's daughter.

Deuce Barnard

Barnard's son.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Barnard will be cremated, and a memorial service will be held at a later date at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Donations can be made in his honor to Smile Train or Angela Hospice in Livonia, Michigan.

The takeaway

Barnard's life and legacy serve as a testament to the enduring values of community, family, and small business that have defined the Troy/Rochester Hills region for generations. His passing marks the end of an era, but his memory will live on through the many lives he touched.