William G. Blazes, Sr., 91, of Smithsburg, MD, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, April 26, 2024. Affectionately known as Buddy, he was born September 4, 1932, in Wilkes-Barre, PA. He was the son of William Blazes and Elizabeth Blazes.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Jeanette Blazes, in 2016 and brother, Jackie Blazes in 2023.

He is survived by his son, William Blazes, Jr. of Smithsburg; his daughter, Susan Fowler (Jon Fowler) of Chewsville; grandchildren, Keith, Alex, Kristen and great grandchildren, Mckenzie, Madison Rose, and Seth; and son, James Blazes (Jennifer Blazes) of Hagerstown, and grandchildren, Anna, Jill, and Christian.

Bill was a 1950 graduate of Coughlin High School in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Air Force and was a proud veteran of the Korean war. He was employed by Mack Trucks, Inc. Hagerstown, MD for 34 years until his retirement.

He was a devout Catholic and had been a lifelong member of St. Mary Church in Hagerstown.

Bill enjoyed playing golf and spending family vacations at the beach. Easily making Myrtle Beach, SC his favorite destination. He was a lifelong fan of the Boston Red Sox's and Washington Capitals.

The family would like to thank Ann Kwak, Aunt, of Wilkes-Barre, PA for her tender care and guidance.

The family would like to thank the team members working in the ICU West unit, 4th floor, at Meritus Hospital for their care and support.

The family would like to thank Dr. William Kerns and Dr. Jeffrey Jones for their years of looking after and taking care of our dad.

Finally, the family would like to thank the team members of Hospice Washington County for their compassion, empathy, and professionalism provided in these final days.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 from 6 to 8 pm at Minnich Funeral Home, 415 E. Wilson Blvd., Hagerstown, MD.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10am on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 224 West Washington Street, Hagerstown, MD. Father James Boric will be celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Hospice of Washington County, 1710 Underpass Way, Suite 300, Hagerstown, MD 21740.