William Robert Niehaus

William Robert Niehaus of Chelsea, passed away on March 12th, 2026, at 81. Bill was born in 1944 to Robert and Marjorie Niehaus of Grass Lake. He graduated from Grass Lake High School in 1962.

Bill married his wife, Cheryl, in 1972. They bought a farmhouse in Chelsea and spent years restoring it with a pool, gardens, sunflowers, and room for their many pets. Bill had a special love for animals, including a goat (Domino), a ferret (Buffy), and many cats and dogs.

Bill drove a semi-truck for Midwest and Roadway, spending hours on the Ohio Turnpike. He then worked as a school bus driver and driver’s ed instructor and also owned the Village Creamery in Brooklyn for 10 years.

Bill traveled the world, watching the elephants on safaris in Africa and feeding the seagulls in the Outer Banks. He was always planning his next trip and enjoyed traveling within Michigan, especially to Detroit.

Bill loved music and attended many concerts. His taste ranged from Jack White to the Rolling Stones to Bad Bunny. He would turn up the volume and say, “If it’s too loud, you’re too old”. He was also a car and sports enthusiast, especially Formula 1 and the Michigan Wolverines.

Bill loved a good party and a good debate on any topic, especially politics. He was curious about world events and was an avid reader.

Bill is survived by his wife Cheryl, his daughters, Angela (John) Kennedy and Kim (Joe) Gardner, his grandchildren, Lauren, Zach, Bennett and Clara, his brother John (Nancy) Niehaus, his son-in-law Gregg Goble, his previous wife and mother of Brigitte and Angela, Jennifer Poltl, his Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Mickey, and two cats.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Marjorie Niehaus, his daughter Brigitte Goble, and many beloved pets. The family will host a Celebration of Life this summer. Donations can be made in Bill’s memory to the Humane Society of Huron Valley.

Bill leaves behind many memories, many stories, and probably a few unfinished arguments.