Walter Hill, 82, of Fairfield Glade, formerly of Farmington Hills, MI, passed away Jan. 7, 2012, after a lengthy illness. A memorial service will be held at the Fairfield Glade Community Church in Crossville Jan. 21, at 10 a.m.

He was the beloved husband of Patricia for 51 years and the loving father of Steven, Thomas and Grace Hill Putnam and her husband, Mark. He was the cherished grandfather of John, Christopher and Abigail Putnam, the devoted son of the late John “Fritz” and Lyyli Hill of L’Anse, MI, and dear brother of Ruth Ranta of L’Anse, MI and the late Laila Marshall. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins in the U.S. and Canada.

Born Nov. 1, 1929, in Baraga, MI, Walt graduated from L’Anse High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan Technological University and did master’s work at Wayne State University in Detroit. He retired from Ford Motor Company after 42 years, last serving as a senior staff engineer in international programs in the Automotive Safety and Compliance Assurance division. He was a registered professional engineer in the state of Michigan and a life member of the Society of Automotive Engineers.

In retirement, he spent his summers with Pat on his beloved Huron Bay, Lake Superior. He was a thoughtful man and an avid reader who loved history, travel, golf and music. His family and friends were his most valued treasures. There was rarely a time when he wasn’t making friends laugh. He lived by the maxim, learned from a revered manager during his early days at Ford Motor Company, “always tell the truth.” And he did. His family will always remember his kindness, integrity and commitment to high standards in all aspects of his life.

Memorial tributes may be made to the Fairfield Glade Community Church, 521 Snead Dr., Fairfield Glade, TN 38558, or to the American Cancer Society. Remembrances of Walt are welcomed and greatly appreciated at www.memorialwebsites.legacy.com/WalterHill.