[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 198 (Friday, December 1, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1154]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





RECOGNIZING WILLIAM A. MCFARLANE'S SERVICE TO HIS COMMUNITY AND TO OUR 
                                 NATION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DEBBIE DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, December 1, 2023

  Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of 
William ``Bill'' A. McFarlane and to grieve his passing. A dedicated 
public servant, his devotion to his community, state, and nation is 
worthy of remembrance and commendation.
  Bill graduated from Willow Run High School in Ypsilanti, Michigan in 
1965, later being inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2004. His 
secondary education was interrupted by the conflict in Vietnam, which 
at that time was growing in its size and intensity. William proudly 
served his country in the Army under Colonel George S. Patton IV in 
1968 and 1969, during which he was awarded two Bronze Stars for 
``heroic achievement in a combat zone'' as well as two Purple Hearts.
  After his service in the Army, Bill graduated from Eastern Michigan 
University in Ypsilanti, Michigan. A true leader in his community, he 
was appointed as Head Detective for the Washtenaw County Sherriff's 
Office before serving as the Township Supervisor for Superior Township 
for 20 years. In his position as Township Supervisor, Bill was crucial 
in the negotiations that resulted in Hyundai establishing their 
American HQ in Superior Township in 2003. During his tenure, Superior 
Township saw a marked increase in population as well as their median 
income. Not yet satisfied, he would also serve six years on the 
Washtenaw County Road Commission. Bill was integral in facilitating 
transportation improvements in Superior Township and throughout 
Washtenaw County, providing increased mobility and access to all of our 
residents.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating and 
honoring the life and service of Bill McFarlane. A leader in his 
community and a friend to many, his presence will be greatly missed but 
not forgotten. His memory lives on in his wife, Sharon, two children, 
and four grandchildren. We offer them prayers of solace in this 
difficult time, and thank them for sharing their husband, father, and 
grandfather with us. He made our corner of Michigan a better and more 
welcoming place for all.

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