In a very tempestuous time for Beta Sig Bill was a stalwart. We were in a time of transition and he set a standard for what fraternity means. I have always admired his grace, forthrightness and sense of style.
I will never forget the leaping gnome! Picture Mr. Buttoned Down business man, normally known for wearing a full length leather trench coat and driving a gull wing Mercedes two seater, instead, being encased in chains and led through the snack shop on all fours slavering and lunging at coeds and being hauled back by his handlers. A perfect storm of hilarious insanity brought on by some unknown juxtaposition of the moon and various planets.
I also remember the infamous buck buck game on the eve of Bill’s departure for military service. Taking place in the lounge in the men’s dorm we exploded Bill’s knee and precluded his military adventures.
May God bless Bill and pour His grace and mercy on him and his family.
Henri Raub
“I’m a melancholy man. That’s what I am. All the world astounds me and I think I understand that we’re going to keep growing. Wait and see.” – Moody Blues and Bill’s signature song.
I know for certain that Bill enjoyed that photo. Bill and I chatted infrequently and it turns out that we had many similar views on life, the universe, and everything.
Let us carry his memory into the rest of time.
Peace
Roy Hallowell
I did not know Bill well, but the few times I saw him I was impressed with the way he held himself.
Michael Injaian
God Speed Bill to a more expansive existence not the least of which is within all of our hearts.
Max Moon
While I only had the pleasure of Bill’s company on too few occasions we found in those times and on line that we were kindred spirits in many ways with him being the wiser than me.
Bill Steward
I know Bill and he has been our wise old “Sage of Beta Sig” and placed value in everything he said and did. Bill is a remarkable man and who loves and cherishes his “Princess, Queen, Her Majesty” Diana with all his heart. My prayers and thoughts are with Bill and his family at this time and hope he is at peace and without pain. Please pass my thoughts on to Diana and the family.
With deep sadness
Rick McQuillan
As a freshman Betan, visiting Bill from time to time and as he was (as Rick said: “the Sage of Beta Sig”). Bill
was funny but not like the rest of us clowns.
May the Lord bless you Bill, Diana, & Lara and all the Brothers.
Bob Glisson
Bill was my Pledge Master in 1970 along with Dave Ruff, George Lombardo (RIP), and Ken Cooper (RIP).
At that time, he earned my respect through his commanding demeanor, bearing, and directness. As we grew older, I admired him for his unwavering love and dedication to his wife, Diana, and daughter, Lara.
I asked Diana if Bill still had the tacky BetaSig Beer Keg Lamp George and I made him. She said she was keeping it because it was one Bill’s prized possessions. RIP old friend – you will be missed.
Todd Welsh
In my mind I could see him at heaven,’s version of Ma and Pa’s or the Pen and Ink. Bill was laughing and swapping stories and, jokes with George Lombardo,Dave Haas,Walt Donkowski,Ken Cooper, and Alan Glass. Well Bill save some room. I’ll be pulling up a chair next to you soon enough.
And Bill….
Thanks
Been putting this off because it seems so final. Bill’s funeral was nicely done by his family. I want to thank those who came and represented the frat as they helped me get thru the day although I don’t know if they realized it. All of Bill’s life was spoken of save one, his time with us. I was hoping one of us would be asked but time limits didn’t allow for it. I don’t know if I could have gotten thru it but this is what I would have said… My name is Dave Ruff. I am a fraternity brother and Bill’s room mate his senior year at Ursinus. He was also our pledgemaster and he endoctrinated Todd Welsh,George Lombardo,Ken Cooper and myself. Bill taught us that Brotherhood, Sincerety and Loyalty were more than a fine motto but a way of life. As a room mate Bill did more than discuss life and philosophy. He did more than teach this street kid how to tie a tie,what utensil to use and when to use them formally, what wine went with what food and Dave there is more to wine than Ripple and MD 20/20. He taught me class was more than a financial term,to be feared and detested. It was the way you should treat people with kindness and respect. After the shock of Bill’s passing I kept seeing a vision in my head next page
I could see him sitting at heaven’s version of Ma and Pa’s or the Pen and Ink swapping stories and humor with George Lombardo,Dave Haas,Walt Donkowski,Ken Cooper,and Alan Glass. Bill save some space. I’ll be pulling up a chair next to you soon enough.
and Bill….
Thanks