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William Weems Obituary
William M. Weems paid attention to the small things in life, right down to the white tennis shoes he always wore. Gifts were more than presents, they were always a little part of himself: the lighter used in "Blood Simple" he gave to his movie buddy, or the steel theme (to represent the 10th anniversary) he built on last year -- down to the antique steel pens used to write the menu -- to celebrate his marriage to his wife, Lisa.
"His life was really based on what he could do to enhance the lives of others," said friend Cynthia Gardner. "Most importantly his wife and daughter Zoe."
"Love my girls," he said as he headed out for United Flight 173 a day earlier than necessary to accompany clients to Los Angeles and see relatives. A 46-year-old freelance commercial producer who lived in Marblehead, Mass., he went against type. "He always did things with kindness," said Dan Lincoln, the movie buddy who worked with him since 1986, "and a nice word."
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on December 28, 2001.
A freelance producer of TV commercials, William Weems was headed from Boston to Los Angeles aboard United Flight 175 when it crashed into the south tower of the World Trade Center, said his wife, Lisa.
Weems, 46, lived in Marblehead, Mass., on the coast of the Atlantic, north of Boston. He had a 7-year-old daughter Zoe.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
DeAun Viole' Twogood
September 12, 2024
Bill has been in my thoughts and prayers. Many of us missed Bill and other classmates at the CHS class reunion last October. I miss Bill's freckles, white sneakers, and always bringing a smile to an audience.
Beth (Doty) Prus
September 11, 2024
Still think of you all the time. Blessed to have known you and worked with you and called you a friend.
Tom Walden
September 13, 2021
All I could think about at his memorial service was ........no, really, Bill was actually that nice and that kind. People always speak so highly of those who've left us at a funeral, but Bill Weems was the real thing. One of the best human beings I've ever known and working with him was always a joy.
Dan Lincoln
September 12, 2021
20 years gone. Miss you so much, buddy.
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Michelle Cutler
September 11, 2021
It's been 20 years since you were taken and it's just as hard to find the right words to say now that is was then. My tribute to you is smiling at as many people as I possibly can because I always saw a smile on your face.
Cindy Vickers
September 11, 2021
Love to you and your family always. You were always so fun in Carelli’s class! Knew you were destined for greatness. Prayers and Blessings Bill, to you and your family.
Dan Misko
September 11, 2021
20 years now, it’s not possible. We were great friends, actors, and cut ups. By now his daughter must be grown. Sadly, she missed having a dad all those years. RIP.
Ann McKallagat
September 11, 2021
Missing you my friend❤
Cecelia Crawford (née Stoup)
September 10, 2021
On the 20th Anniversary of this terrible event, I am taking time to remember my classmate Bill Weems. I went to Lawrence Junior High, where I met him in my first Drama Class, and Chatsworth High School for 3 years in Play Production class. He was consistently funny, just hysterical - I sometimes couldn’t catch my breath from laughing so hard. Still remember when we played husband and wife in Cheaper By the Dozen; I was so scared and he settled me down with gentle poking and reassurance. Wonderful human being. The world is a sadder place without him.
DeAun Viole' Twogood
September 10, 2021
I met Bill when we were students at Lawrence Jr High in Chatsworth. He enjoyed doing something crazy while wearing his white sneakers, such as collecting erasers from the classrooms and storing them in his locker. His brilliant smile and freckles will always be remembered.
Greg Behringer
February 21, 2021
I had no idea what had happened, until I too thought today, "I wonder what Bill Weems did with his life". Now I know. I went through school in Canoga Park with Bill: his recital of monologues in front of our 6th grade class, acting opposite him in an "Inherit the Wind" play and learning about "flue goo" from his St. Bernards. His drive and zest for life has left a mark on my life, and obviously many other lives as well. We were all blessed to have his spirit and wit open our eyes to the pure joy of living. Thank you, Bill!
DIANE GALBURT
December 22, 2020
I MISS YOU EVERY DAY!! YOU WERE THE BEST PERSON I HAVE EVER KNOWN. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING THAT YOU SHARED WITH ME & I AM SENDING YOU A CANDLE TO LIGHT YOUR WAY!! WITH LOVE, DIANE GALBURT
December 14, 2020
I also knew Bill from Mr. Carelli’s class at Chatsworth High. He and I did “scenes” together and worked on the play, “Wait Unti Dark”! I was very sad to hear if his passing back on 9/11. He signed my yearbook and wished me well after graduation. I still think of him often as he was a true gentleman and a kind nd person. I hope he is resting in peace
Cindy Vickers Fisher, class of 72.
Danny Boy
February 21, 2020
Miss you, Buddy.
Kindred Family
February 20, 2020
Bill is still dearly missed and always remembered. Our deep sympathy for your loss.Daily may God give the peace and comfort needed.
Angela (Hollyfield) Kinney
September 11, 2019
Thoughts of you today, and continued prayers for your wife and daughter, on this 18th anniversary of a tragic day in our country's history that changed our lives forever!
Kim Birkins
September 11, 2019
18 years. How can this be? May you always Rest In Peace. May your family know that you are in the hearts of many. Always.
Michael Math
September 11, 2019
Memories of going to Disneyland with you, Zoe, and my two girls never fade away.
Scott Weems
September 11, 2019
Your name caught my eye that Dreadful day and you were never forgotten. 18 years in heaven doesn't seem fair. For a man with my last name, not a common name, I mourn for you and you your family.
Danny Boy
September 11, 2019
Miss you, Bill. Never forget.
Michelle Cutler
September 11, 2019
While listening to the radio this morning I heard them say it's been 18 years....the years seem to fly by but at some points it seems like just yesterday our world was turned upside down by cowards.....I cant tell you what I did last week but I still remember the last time I saw you Bill......smiles as big as yours dont fade.
KAYDEE COOPER
September 10, 2019
IM WILLIAM M WEEMS NIECE KAYDEE COOPER AND MY UNCLE BILL HAVE BEEN GONE FOR 18 YEARS
Dan Lincoln
September 12, 2018
Miss you, Buddy
Marcelle (Michael) Tudhope
September 11, 2018
I was so very sorry to hear of this tragic loss. By the time Sept. 11 happened, Zoe had moved on to other interests. But I had the pleasure of being Zoe's music teacher when she was about 3 1/2. Lisa and Bill took turns bring Zoe to the music and movement classes I held in an upper room of my Marblehead home. Sometimes they all came together. Zoe, like all the children, was a joy to "teach" and always looked like the cat who had the cream when Bill was with her. I loved having them in class. Bill was always fully engaged, laughing and dancing, eyes sparkling, soaking up every second of this precious time with his family. It's hard to imagine that Zoe is all grown up now, and I can't imagine what she and her mom have had to endure. I hope that both of Bill's "girls" have found peace and and happiness. I think of you all the time.
Angela (Hollyfield) Kinney
September 11, 2018
Dear Lisa & Zoe,
I can't even begin to comprehend what this day must mean to you. I only learned last year that Bill was a passenger on flight 175. We had a Canoga Park youth group reunion and Steve Quatro spoke about Bill. I remember how much fun he was, always smiling and those twinkling eyes! Bill's legacy will ALWAYS be remembered!! Love and Prayers to you!
Mark Bodi
September 11, 2017
I met Bill doing a television commercials...he was such a great person to work with, and of course a wounderful human being. I will never forget him and I hope his family can take some measure of comfort knowing that even after all these years Bill's enduring legacy as man of integrity and friendship will always live on. We were blessed that he walked this earth and will always feel the loss that he left it so soon.
Diane Galburt
September 11, 2017
Bill, still lighting candles and talking to you all of the time. I still am heartbroken by the great loss of you but you are with all of our friends and families. Love forever, Diane Galburt. P.S. All of my love to Lisa and Zoe!!
September 11, 2016
Bill, I worked at the same ad agency as you 15 years ago today. We never met. However, I will always remember you. I will always, always, always remember you. I will always remember your office... the stickie note you left telling us you are in LA. Two years ago I visited the George W. Bush Presidential Library in Dallas to re-learn about the awful day in the history of our country. I felt is was my duty as an American. In the library/museum there is a wall with every name etched into it of those who died. I did not move until I read every single name until I came to yours. The very last name. Williams Weems. I cry this day every year. I cry for you and your family, and I cry especially for your daughter, Zoe. I never new you, but I will never, ever forget you. Rest in peace Bill. Kim Birkins
Michael Math
September 11, 2016
It is right about the time you left us. I would like to share an anecdote from our time spent together. One about film, which you loved so much. We saw many with you and your girlfriend, Diane, when we were all young. Lots at ucla film class that you had introduced us to. Many at theaters all over Los Angeles. I am now living in the desert outside of Los Angeles. Many times my wife and I go to the movies. Many times we are the only ones there. I recall your telling us this happening to you many times in LA when you went to see offbeat or indies. You had said it was just you and the projectionist. Invariably, the projectionist, wanting to go home early would ask you if you really wanna see the movie and invariably you would say "roll it."
Each and every time this happens to me these days, and it is often, I shout out to the projectionist, ROLL IT! Thanks so much for all the wonderful memories and things you have introduced me to.
You are truly missed by me and so many, many projectionists
Jerry Markell
September 11, 2016
Bill and I became friends in 1983 when he lived in LA. As we were both in the beginning of our careers, life had us going in opposite directions. Bill was a stand-out. So well-spoken; so well manored. Bill was a true gentleman in his youth. Lisa and Zoe should know that Bill, before they knew him, was A person of great character. So gracious, so handsome, so charming. Uncommon words to describe a boy in their twenties. Bill owned them all! I can only imagine the wonderful husband and father he grew to become. I wish you had more memories.....know that if you ever find yourself wondering what Bill was like in his younger days, you would be equally proud. We were all blessed to know Bill!!
Jerry
Michelle Cutler
September 11, 2016
15 years have passed and today still brings me back to our final words.....a quick passing on the stairs of the JCC. You were in a hurry to go pick up Zoe, but that didn't stop you from greeting me, flashing me that amazing smile and complimenting me on my hair cut (which by the way no one else had even noticed all day). You are thought of often, not just today but all year long. Just wanted you to know you have not been forgotten and never will be.
Diane Galburt
September 10, 2016
Hello,it's me again! Thinking about you constantly and hope you are up there partying with our friends and family. All my love, Di
September 9, 2016
Hard to believe it has been 15 years.
Your memory and friendship hasn't faded one bit.
Miss you, Bill.
Never forget.
Danny Boy
Bill Linsman
September 9, 2016
Thinking of you, Bill. We knew each other and worked together not for that long, but every time was a pleasure. You are missed.
Bill Linsman
Del Newberry
June 17, 2016
I pray today for the many friends and family who were touched by Bill and miss his smile. I hope that we all can learn from him and honor his legacy by being kind to one another, Much love from Texas
Michael Siegel
May 27, 2016
Visiting site and wanted to connect. Randomly settled on William. Bless your family
Dan Misko
September 13, 2015
Miss you. Only kid in high school who addressed his dad by "jones" never dad or father or even his own first name. Spent New Year's Eve working at jack in the box in 1971. Sorry we lost touch. RIP
Diane Galburt
September 12, 2015
ALWAYS IN MY HEART AND MIND! MISS YOU TERRIBLY. YOU WERE THE BEST, MOST UNBELIEVABLE PERSON I HAVE EVER HAD THE HONOR TO KNOW AND I HOPE THAT YOU CAN HEAR ME TALKING TO YOU EVERYDAY! OH, AND THAT AMAZING SMILE THAT I WILL NEVER FORGET! LOVE TO DOTTIE, TED, BILL, SR. AND TIM! XOXO
Michelle Cutler
September 12, 2015
Thinking about you and your million dollar smile....still feel so honored to have known you
gaby
September 11, 2015
Miss you Bill, today and every day, I have many fond memories of you and your daughter visiting us and making Disneyland trips. you influenced my life for the better in so many ways. I will never forget.
July 23, 2015
My heart aches when I read about such kind loving people who needlessly lost their lives at such a young age, leaving a wife and daughter behind. His life will be fulfilled with his family when loved ones will be resurrected to join their loving families once again and all this sadness will be a thing of the past.
Jerry Markell
November 8, 2014
I can only pray that this finds Bill's wife, daughter, family and friends at peace and filled with wonderful memories that last their lifetime and beyond. Bill was one of those rare individuals that I would be proud to have represent the human race. I say that literally. Bill thought of me as a friend many years ago and I remember to this day that it made me feel special. My name is Jerry and I had the opportunity to meet Bill in 1982 while working with him at Specialties Corporation. Bill was 10 years my senior. Although we only saw each other once or twice a week we connected and became friends. Our career paths were so different. I think I was drawn to his creativity and willingness to follow his dreams of becoming a film maker. Bill liked how I worked hard for no apparent reason. I remember him asking me to be the production accountant and production assistant for his film "YOUR FRIEND THE POLICEMAN". He said he could not pay me but I would get "credits". As a self-absorbed 21 year old I was oddly happy to help. It was funny showing up that morning at Bill's apartment. I got there first and was amazed how the friends kept coming and coming till the apartment was packed with those genuinely wanting to help Bill with his film. So today, November 7, 2014, in the middle of cleaning my floors, I received a message to google Bill. I got that message once before many years ago but i ignored it thinking it was just a "flash-back" or something. This time, I set down the mop mid-stroke and googled him. Needless to say, 12 hours later I am filled with tears for our loss. Bill was one class act! I always felt such an emotional and physical loss every 9/11. I now know the connection was far beyond being a proud American. My most sincere condolences to Bill's wife, daughter, family and friends. Bill's beautiful spirit will live on forever. My having not seen him for over 30 years and him still on my mind is testament to that. Yes, Bill Weems was that special a person!
Blue
September 25, 2014
Never forgotten. Always Remembered.
michelle cutler
September 12, 2014
Another year and the memories are still as clear as ever.....I can remember the last time I saw you as clear as anything.....your smile will live on in all who were blessed to receive it
Ann McKallagat
September 12, 2014
Every year Facebook lights up with fond memories you brought to so many Boston advertising and production people who you deeply touched and stayed in their hearts. And every year somebody posts your genius "Bill Weems Background Actor" video. I laugh and appreciate your dry wit and linger on your every word as I watch it. Seeing your kind face and feeling your warmth that always exuded from you. You were a rare birdand a treasure, Bill Weems. Forever and EVER in our hearts. Missing you...
Jeriann Fleres
September 11, 2014
It was 1972. I was a lost kid and heading for some serious trouble. I was a student in Mr. Carrelli's English class at Chatsworth High School. Mr. Carrelli saw the trouble I was heading for and offered me full English credit if I would sign up for his Drama Class too. I thought it was an easy way to get credit so I did. That is where I met Bill. I was a wreck. I was scared and totally out of place with the "real" drama students. I had to do a skit from Arsenic and Old Lace. I was telling Mr. Carrelli I could not do it. I ended up running out of the classroom and I was outside the door crying. Bill came up to me and said he would work with me and do the skit with me if I committed to a couple of hours rehearsal. That small act of kindness changed my life. He didn't have to even speak to me none the less take time out to work with me. We rehearsed and I got through the skit. I went on to join the drama club and performed in several of the plays. I was never anything close to an actress but it gave me self-confidence that I really needed. Bill was always nice and kept after me to keep trying - not only in drama but also in life. He said it was easy to give up and join my friends who cut class and did drugs. But in the long run what would I really have? Bill graduated and I moved to New York to live with my Dad. I never talked to him again. I have always wanted to keep in touch and thank him for what he did but things happen and you always think you will have that chance, I ended up getting married and became a drama teacher myself. I passed on the lessons that Bill taught me and recently was telling a student about him and she asked me "What ever happened to Bill Wheems?" That got me wondering. I searched and searched and finally found his name and picture online. I was heartbroken when I finally discovered that he had been killed in 911. I don't know who will be reading this but I wanted it documented that he was truly a wonderful caring person who made a difference in someone's life. I will always credit him and Mr. Carrelli for saving me when I could have been lost. God Bless you Bill. I am so sorry I did not reach you sooner and tell you what you did for me.
Brian Snedeker
September 11, 2014
I knew him a little in Boston. A gentleman. The world will miss him, and I'm sorry he had to go through the horror of that day.
charmaine weems
April 2, 2014
Hello Mr Weems,
I am very much amused with the weems legacy as I am also a weems myself.
Michael Math
September 13, 2013
Thinking about all of us at Disneyland. What a wonderful day. Us Mickey Mouse adults able to observe our kids Zoe and Anabel at the Happiest Place on Earth. Somehow, it's not quite as happy without you there.
Ann McKallagat
September 13, 2013
i think of you often. all the fun times...missing you, friend.
Bob Hirsch
September 12, 2013
Thinking of you, Bill. I'll donate a pint for ya soon.
Linda Campbell
September 11, 2013
Remembering your smiling face and what a great person you were. So glad I had the privilege of knowing you back in the Sardine Factory days!
Michelle Cutler
September 11, 2013
Always in the hearts of all who knew you.
September 11, 2013
Cant believe its been 12 years. i still remember the last time i saw you at the JCC, i was leaving and you stopped to compliment me on my new haircut, something no one did all that day. your smile still remains in my memory. you will never be forgotten, good men like you are so rare and when one is taken a whole remains never to be filled.
robert patton spruill
March 15, 2013
Watched background performer again. Miss you.
Diane Galburt
March 6, 2013
Thinking and talking to you day and night! Uncle Ted and Bill, Sr. and Tim and Dottie are all with you now. Hope you are all partying! Love forever and always. . . Di All my love to Lisa and Zoe!!"
March 5, 2013
I found your name years ago when looking through the many lists on this memorial page. Now at the same age you were when you passed this year brings a magical moment in my life that I never thought possible. My thoughts are of you, a man I never met who shares my same surname. May you rest in peace and may you never be forgotten.
Stephanie Kramer
September 11, 2012
God bless your soul Bill and may his angels watch over your wife and daughter, now and always.
September 11, 2012
9/11/12 Watched 'Background Performer' this morning. You are forever with me, Bill. Danny Boy
Ann McKallagat
September 11, 2012
Missing you, my friend--I will never forget you xoannie
Brenda Coffey
September 10, 2012
Another year...another tear... Miss you my friend.
October 19, 2011
Although we never met, your daughter, zoe is a friend of mine. She is such a beautiful person inside and out. I wish you could see what a great person she is. You are greatly missed.
RIP..............
October 4, 2011
Donna Braemer
October 4, 2011
Although we never met-I was touched by your story. May God keep you by his side until your family can come to you. I hope you are at peace. My deepest sympathies to your family-may the find some comfort & strength when the need it the most.
GRAdy hicks
October 4, 2011
Good to hear of this real American doing what our freedom has enabled us to do...take care of the ppl that we love.
Cheryl Pharr
September 16, 2011
You are greatly missed by so many. Those that knew you when we were younger and those that had a chance to know you after High School. You will always be remember. My condolences to your family.
Diane Galburt
September 13, 2011
Billy, You were the absolute best! You are missed, everyday, in every way. Love to Lisa and Zoe - I MISS YOU! 310 909 9556. All my love, Di
September 12, 2011
Weemsie, you are unforgettable...
rick cardillo
September 11, 2011
Bill made the world better. he was a good man.
C. Rynne
September 11, 2011
Think of you, as always. I miss you!
dan lincoln
September 11, 2011
Thinking of you today. I miss you, buddy!
Bob Hirsch
September 11, 2011
Thinking of Bill, his family and friends today.
Liz Doten
September 11, 2011
Thinking of you today ten years later. So sorry. You are still missed. Prayers for you and your family.
Gloria Burke
September 10, 2011
My heart has ached for "Billy" and his family for the years I've known that he was lost on that terrible day...........my condolences to his Dad, Bill Weems...........Gloria Burke
Matt K
September 9, 2011
I only knew Bill for a week, but he made quite a impression with his funny laugh and shiny white shoes. Thinking of him a lot this week. Peace.
Marc Fisichella
September 7, 2011
I will always have such fond memories of working with you, Bill at a time when I was just beginning my career. I shall never forget the advice you shared as I planned my move to Los Angeles from Boston. Your kindness, sincerity, wit and sense of humor remain unmatched in this business.
michael kettle
August 25, 2011
I feel so sorry that is why i am doing a report on him.
Peggy Childers
August 16, 2011
To the family and friends of William Weems:
William will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not allow those we lost on 9/11 be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you.
Barry Silverman
May 13, 2011
I didn't know Bill but Michael Moore just mentioned in him in a brilliant editorial he wrote about the death of OBL. Doesn't really matter. Bill seemed like a decent guy and mourning for people we don't know sometimes makes us better. And any friend of Michael Moore deserves to be recognized. Rest in peace Bill I hope your family is doing well
Chuck Koelsch
May 2, 2011
Bill
I was always struck by what a wonderful person you were when we worked together in the production business in Boston. You were a producer on one of my shoots and it was a great experience. And I remember the day I saw your name scroll across my TV. It filled me with rage and anger that someone as good as you could be taken in such a way. It still does.
But your goodness will always win out over that event. It was an honor to know you.
May 2, 2011
Bill
I think of you every day, but more today--so kind and so thoughtful--and so missed in this world.
Laurie Everett
Ann McKallagat
May 2, 2011
Thinking of you today, Weemsie... I
will never forget you... miss you...
May 2, 2011
I hope, in some way, today's news allows to have a little peace.
Steve Quatro
May 2, 2011
From the first day I moved in across the street and we rode bikes together in CP you were a good friend.
Miss you,
Q, aka Jones
May 2, 2011
Thinking of you this day. RIP.
February 7, 2011
Dear Bill, There have been many times that I have thought of you and the work we did in Boston...you were one of a kind...
~Tony Mariano~
Jim Wallis
January 21, 2011
Good memories of Bill from days in High School in Canoga Park. My love and condolences to "the girls".
September 11, 2010
Bill,
It's been nine years now, and seems like yeaterday. Can't imagine what you would be up to today, but no doubt putting smiles on many faces. Rest in Peace " Joneseee" it was you who were always PLUM.
Dan Misko
[email protected]
Brenda Coffey
September 10, 2010
I think of you often Bill. You're forever in my heart.
Ann McKallagat
September 10, 2010
Bill~if you could read this, I'd want you to know that I don't just think of you around this time. I think of you quite often and I sometimes I have hard long cries over what a huge loss it was for all who loved you. I miss you so much Weemsie.
Scott Weems
September 10, 2010
Your name caught my eye in the days that followed as it is such an uncommon name. My thoughts are with you and your family tomorrow as 9 years have passed since that terrible day. Rest softly brother.
Kevin Shale
September 11, 2009
thinking of Bill today. Hell of a guy, miss him terribly.
Carmen Wolf
September 11, 2009
Thinking of Bill, Lisa and Zoe today and very often. Miss you all and hoping Lisa and Zoe are doing well.
Love,
Carmen Wolf
Los Angeles, CA
[email protected]
Ann McKallagat
September 11, 2009
I think of Bill often. His big heart that went along with his big smile. His clever wit. He loved his family so much. He was a true and good friend. Truly an original in every way. I miss you Weemsie and I will never forget you. xo
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