June
17,1 917 - May 9, 2010SOUTH BEND - William Henry Badowski (Pete) was born on June 17, 1917 in South Bend, Indiana, and died on May 9, 2010. He resided in Williamsburg, Virginia. He spent most of his life in South Bend, where his family owned Chapin Bakery and where he worked from a very young age. He served in the Army during World War II and upon return, worked at Studebaker's until their closing. He was an employee at South Bend Range where he was instrumental in creating new technology that revolutionized cooking equipment for restaurants throughout the United States. He was, also, the founder of Hoosier Racing Tire and developed a tire retreading process that made the racing sport safer for participants. On December 1, 1936, he married his sweetheart and dancing partner Mary Jane Fye. Their 73 years of marriage was a true commitment of love and caring for each other. After retirement, they moved to Hobe Sound, Florida. Pete will be greatly missed and never forgotten by his devoted wife, Mary Jane, and their daughters Pat Baskett who preceded him in death, JoAnne Winkler of Chicago, IL, Marjorie Hilkert of Williamsburg, VA, and Diane Snyder of Tigard, OR. His 9 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren will carry with them his smiles, hugs and interest in every phase of their lives. He is also survived by his 2 sisters, Sophie Konieczny and Alice Marciniak, and his 1 brother Harry Badowski. While attending an Alzheimer's Day Care Center in Hobe Sound, Florida, he picked up a paint brush for the first time in his life and created beautiful floral paintings that are now available on packets of note cards with all proceeds going to the support the Alzheimer's Association and its initiatives. Our family wants to thank all of those that have tenderly cared for him during the past few years. In lieu of flowers, or if anyone is interested in making a donation in Pete's honor, you may do so to the Southeastern Virginia Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association , 213 McLaws Circle, Suite 2-B, Williamsburg, Va, 23185. Arrangements are being handled by The Cremation Society of Virginia.