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WILLIAM C. DAHM

WILLIAM DAHM Obituary

DAHM
WILLIAM C., on May 28, 2013.Dear father of Jamie Lyn Kaczaniuk (Jeremy), Julie C. Barber (Ian) and William C. Dahm III; he is also survived by his granddaughter Anya and his brothers and sister Gregory Dahm, Montgomery Dahm, Lori Dahm and Daniel Michie. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Viewing Thursday 5 until 8 P.M. First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia, 2125 Chestnut St. 19103. Services and Interment private. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Marine Corps Lawenforcement Foundation, Philadelphia Chapter, P.O. Box 11653, Phila. PA.19116. (REILLY)

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Philadelphia Inquirer/Philadelphia Daily News on Jun. 2, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for WILLIAM DAHM

Sponsored by Loving Mother Barbara michie.

72 Entries

Ed Crawford

May 31, 2022

Hard to believe nine years has past already, miss you my friend. Semper Fi

Podguski Richard

May 27, 2022

Remembering a good Marine today. Semper Fi my brother

Podguski Richard

December 8, 2020

I went to Boot Camp on Parris Island with Bill. He was our third squad leader, I was the 4th squad leader. We are in many pictures together. Marched along side him for many hours on the drill field. Our Platoon Honor graduate and good Marine indeed. So sorry for his loss. RIP and Semper Fi

William quinn

December 8, 2020

Very nice Jamie...a lot of pictures on this site I took of Billy and I in Dubai and Miami....loved him like a brother....Bill Quinn

Jamie kaczaniuk

December 7, 2020

Hi Dad, not sure what compelled me to come here, but I'm glad I did. Looks like even after 7yrs you're still being remembered and missed... you probably didn't realize how much you impacted people, but clearly you created lasting memories with your humor and antics. I miss you so much dad. Sometimes, out of nowhere, I'm hit square in the gut with the enormity of your loss. And other days it's funny memories that pop into my head that make me laugh out loud. I wish you were here play with your grandbabies--you've got 5!!--and see all the amazingness that they are. No doubt, you'd have been an awesome Pop. But I know you're with us every day, in some way, and I'm always telling stories to the kids about you so that they feel like they do know you. We all love and miss you Dad.

Podguski Richard

June 11, 2020

Bill and I were in boot camp together, Plt 1058. . He was our Honor Graduate. So sorry to hear of his loss. SF brother

Salem Al shammari

May 28, 2020

He was a great friend , I have missed and lost a great friend

Salem Alshammari

May 28, 2020

June 10, 2019

BIll,
I think I speak for everyone who went to high school with you at Abington, you were one of the funniest yet toughest dudes around. I remember fondly pounding beers with you and I think my shoulder still hurts from your friendly punches.
Although we didnt keep in touch its no surprise you served our country as a Marine. You were fearless.
Not sure what happened to you but you were taken too soon. God bless you and your family. Until we meet again.
Dave Hibbs (Abington class of 78)

March 21, 2019

Miss You my friend.

Ed Crawford

May 17, 2015

Missing my soul mate...

Lady E

Kathy Pietrowski

November 24, 2014

Oh my lord, I had no idea Bill died. I'm speechless right now - more like in shock. I will miss you.....Kathy P

July 17, 2014

Miss my sweetheart!

Lady E

MOM

May 26, 2014

MOM

May 26, 2014

MOM

May 26, 2014

on way up

May 26, 2014

Your dream was to climb every mountain you made it to the top My courageous son Thank God for your memories Mom Michie

February 14, 2014

I wish I could give you a Valentine's card and letter...Almost 9 months have gone by... I still can't believe it. I would have given Anything to make you well again...You always said I took great care of you...if only I could have for many years to come. I watched 'It's a Wonderful Life' over Christmas and when George's guardian angel said, "Each man's life touches so many other lives and when he isn't around it leaves an awful hole, doesn't it?"; I thought he could not have said it any better. You made a significant difference and without you here there is a void in every life you touched. I know time marches on but I also know that void will not go away.

You were dynamic. There was a vibrant energy about you. You had a powerful presence that drew me in from the start. You were continually confident yet always humble. You were not one to seek accolades for anything you accomplished, but you were more than well-deserving of the ones you had received. Heroic deeds you had done but chose not to mention, reflected the way you downplayed your courage. Most people who contribute to others endlessly toot their own horns whereas you made monumental sacrifices and kept them to yourself. That was just one of your noble qualities which separated you from everyone else. Even though you were not comfortable in the spotlight, you would captivate a room whenever you walked in...you just had no idea how very much...you were not even aware of it. None of that was what mattered most to you. The little things were what really moved you and brought a smile to your face. As you would say, time and again, "You know I'm just a simple farm boy inside." You were truly authentic...so rare...and even when we disagreed, I adored you completely. Everything I miss about you is a priceless memory I will always treasure. The list goes on and on...The sparkle in your eye...The sound of your laugh...The way you could make me laugh uncontrollably...The way you could make me cry happy tears...Your radiant glow that would shine from within...The depth of your voice...The silly pranks and mischief you got such a big kick out of...The way you had no problem connecting with your
inner-child...The Rat Pack songs you would belt out of the blue...anytime...anywhere...whenever the mood hit you...you knew EVERY tune...Listening to Lennon while driving...and singing Watching the Wheels and Woman...The movies we both enjoyed and could watch over and over again...
Sling Blade...Being There...How anything Peter Sellers was in highly entertained you. The way Dean Martin's comedy skits cracked you up...The way you could not part with your "old school" products...Wild Root...Old Spice...They looked and smelled fabulous on you...The way you were not big on fads and trends and how you were not a fan of my "designer coffee"...How you were never a follower...You blazed your own trail...Your intense love for meatballs and Chinese food...at all times... day or night...Your culinary talents which made me so impressed...How there was a method to your madness whenever you were cooking something...fancy or basic, you gave it the mad scientist touch. The way you wore your favorite black hat tilted to the side...How you always looked incredibly handsome 24 hours a day without any effort...The compliments and affectionate names you gave to me...The ones I gave to you...Our magnetic kiss...It was the absolute best...Your strong hands and perfect embrace...The way I felt safe with you...The way you would lose your glasses, scarves, umbrellas and socks... but you never lost your character...Your unique stories that I loved to hear about when you were a kid growing up in the country...fun times when you were surrounded by nature and all of your beloved animals...Who else would have had a pet spider monkey??... The loving thoughts you expressed when you spoke of your cherished family memories...The way you took immense pride in being a father...The way you were loyal and stood by real friends...Your fascination with waterfalls and climbing every mountain...Your Lumberjack look...Your passion for adventure... a trait you would always say you had gotten from your Mom...Your love of great quotes...The way you were so sentimental...How you still kept your dog Harry's tags and collar with you after all these years...you said they were your good luck charms...Your search for Shibumi and attaining inner-peace...The way you roamed around the globe...land and sea...and still you felt the most joy when you were back home on your farm...It was always you sanctuary...and it will always be your sanctuary. Like you said...You were "just a simple farm boy inside."

I know neither time nor space will change our kindred hearts and I am so grateful to have been there, by your side, when you needed me the most. God would not have had it any other way. I will always be thankful for the meaningful things you said to me and for all you have given to me...You were the most valuable gift. We were both extremely blessed to have learned from each other and to have had a genuine affinity that went far beyond words. How fortunate we were to have had that comfortable magic. Through ups and downs... times spent together and times spent apart...it never changed. I realize your personal experiences took their toll and made an impact on your outlook, but the essence of who you were was stronger and remained constant...Nothing could sway or diminish the "true" you. I listen to Frank Sinatra sing Nature Boy and I reflect on the nature boy, whom I loved dearly and unconditionally, who explored every new unknown territory...first as a curious young boy... and later as a man who embodied great valor. You always knew what "the greatest thing you'll ever learn" was...And when I listen to My Way, the lyrics are you to a tee...You did it your way...You had to conquer your obstacles...You wanted to protect and shield others from any harm and pain...You had to handle things and be a pillar of strength.

I will continue to honor your memory and I am going to keep my promise and do everything I told you I would do. When we were holding each other tight, I did not want to let you go...Nothing was more difficult than letting you go. Every day I think of you calling out to me and saluting me for being there and it takes my breath away...because nothing else was more important to me than being there for you. You are the one who is deserving of ongoing salutes, recognition and praise for your bravery, for your dedication and for every thing and every time you so selflessly gave...and for committing yourself to something larger than yourself. Ralph Waldo Emerson's poem, 'Success', depicts your life in every line.

I know what you stood for is a long-lost art and it inspires me to be better. As I told you many times, You were the most amazing man I have ever known. No one could ever replicate all that you were...A generous spirit...A warm loving soul...A razor-sharp mind and a wit that worked overtime...A beautiful person inside and out...An original masterpiece in a world full of copies...Billy, there will Never be another you.

Love Lives On...
Forevermore, Gina

Grammy

December 25, 2013

Joy To The World

Grammy

December 25, 2013

devted DaD

December 21, 2013

Barbara Michie

December 21, 2013

Thank God for his zest for life and not wasting a day.Peace to you son in heaven

Our new beginning

Barbara Michie

December 21, 2013

Afganistan 2009

December 16, 2013

Bill and Ed Afganistan 9/2009

December 16, 2013

December 10, 2013

Yes, it was the best last 2years of my life as well. I missed thanksgiving with you as well as will miss you this Christmas my love. No more "AG" now. Your at peace finally.

November 14, 2013

Billy, Sweet Bee-ree, The only thing that really matters are matters of the heart- and you will forever be in mine. I can't bring myself to go anywhere I went with you and I'm trying my best to pull myself together as you would tell me to. I thank God for the gift of you always and that we both got to say everything we did. I hope your little buddy Harry is right there by your side wagging his tail. Miss your kisses and hugs and holding your hands every single day. Sending all my love to you 24/7, Gina

November 13, 2013

He renovated our home and we enjoyed living with him. I know he is telling jokes in heaven.

November 11, 2013

Yes, heaven has another angel my love.

Regina Duva

July 19, 2013

There are a few times in life you have the pleasure of knowing true individual. Bill was indeed a renaissance man. A warrior, a poet, a thinker, a proud father and one of the funniest people I've ever met. He's left an indelible impression and is the template of what defines a true man. I'll see you on the other side. Peace to you, Deacon.

Eriks

June 27, 2013

Billy...The Quest of Shibumi continues, the Saga goes on...You will be greatly missed by your European friends and brothers...Strength & Honor !

Peter Leahy

June 12, 2013

William Dahm Family,
I wish to give my condolence for your loss. I'm also sorry I could not attend service. I served in the Marines with Bill at the Folsom Reserve unit in the 1980's. He was a great Marine, and I don't think I ever had a bad time with him. The group we hung around with was nick named the "A" Team, and boy did we get into some crazy situations, particularly on liberty in California. We ended up on the Santa Monica Pier in a bar called Moby's Dock on a Sunday afternoon. We were well lit and a guy started to play the piano. He started playing Sinatra and Bill started to sing along and we all joined in. The Piano Player loved us and said he had a great time. Turns out his name was Norman Lear (Producer/ All in the family etc). We went into another club at night and Bill went in as a very flamboyantly gay Movie Director Victor Largebottom.(picture him with a beret and a scarf around his neck) He proceeded to talk to the crowd of young want to be actors and actresses about his new movie he was working on. They were like mesmerized fish. He once had a Chaplain, who happened to be Jewish, cornered for about an hour or so telling him that he was uncircumcised, and embarrassed about it, and wanted him to be the Moyle to perform the Circumcision. I don't think that Chaplain was right after that. At the reserve center at the end of a weekend, a Gunnery Sgts wife pulled up as we were standing outside and asked for her husband. Bill told her that her husband instructed us to tell her that he was hungry and to get him some McDonalds and to buy us lunch also. So we all jumped in the car and went to McDonalds. Oh, and he ate the Gunnys lunch too. At a later date the same Gunny, who seemed to be always on the receiving end of Bill's humor, pulled up in his prized convertible Cadillac. Some how Bill found some dead fish and put them in his hubcaps. The Gunny said it took about a week to find out where the smell was coming from. The stories of Bill's antics are endless. He always liked to shock people and play on their reactions. I'm sorry that I only had a short time to share with him. He definitely made you laugh. I will miss him. May god bless you all.

CWO3 James Flaherty

June 12, 2013

A good Marine will always be remembered especially in Mexico many years ago.

June 11, 2013

Leave it to my brother Billy to have a Lamb on his farm. And, name it "Lammy!"

Howard Goodwin

June 10, 2013

Bill was a person who inherently made a difference. He cared deeply for his family, his friends, and his country. He was proud of his children, spoke often about them,loved being with them and reveled in their accomplishments. As a friend there was none better. He was there when you needed him, made eminent sense when you talked with him and if you needed a wing man Billy was the best. He had the unique ability to turn a fairly mundane environment into a carnival. His sense of humor was legendary. I think we can all remember being with him when he made us smile. Bill was a patriot. Voluntered to go to Iraq in his 40s . Served with distinction in the Marine Corps over there. When I asked him why he said it was just something that he felt that he had to do. Like everything else that he did he handled his last days with uncommon grace. He was a wondeful guy who will be missed by all of us. Howdie Goodwin

Cousin Mike

June 10, 2013

Jamie, Julie, Billy...I am so sorry for the loss of your Father, I will never forget all the great times I had with him celebrating the holidays with you guys and your dad.

bill & phyllis in vietnam

June 9, 2013

M.K.

June 8, 2013

Bill you will be missed & never forgotten, you could always make me laugh & I also spoke to you & saw the other side you had, very thoughtful & insightful, you were a gentle soul inside & also a brave man in all you did, thank you for being my friend. Heaven will be having a party & The Lord has a smile on his face, keep watching over us.

Gina

June 8, 2013

LOVE LIVES ON BEYOND GOODBYE... The truth of us will never die...Our spirits will shine long after we're gone...And so our love lives on... -JOE COCKER song, One of your very favorite singers

rose parrotta

June 7, 2013

so sorry ,,,such a wonderful guy....will definitley be missed......rose

fla keys

June 6, 2013

Re Teal Rosato

June 6, 2013

Julie, Jaime & Billy...I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. He was such a cool person. I have some great memories growing up with you guys...I will never forget our trips down the shore with your dad...many laughs. Or when he was yelling at me while driving the boat lol ill never forget the way he called my name...Re-Re. Many great memories. XoXo rip Mr. Dahm

Mark

June 6, 2013

Jamie, Julie, Billy.

I am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember and cherish the times I spent with your father. He is someone I will always look up to. You guys are in my thoughts and prayers.

Bill in Kurd area of Iraq with "Sheikh William"

June 6, 2013

Alicia Scully

June 6, 2013

Julie,
We are so terribly sorry for your loss. We are thinking of you, and we know how hard this time must be for you and your family. We know how close you were with your father and how much he means to you, we wish you and your family sympathy in this time of need.
love,
Alicia S, Nicole T, Mike H, Jacqui M, Laura M

John Church

June 6, 2013

June 6th 2013

Dear Dahm Family,

Today is a difficult day for all, but most especially for you the family members who knew Bill best.

Your father, grandfather and brother, Marine Sergeant William “Teapot” Dahm will be remembered fondly by many today. We all grieve differently. For me, writing seems to help process or understand what has happened and allows some perspective. In keeping with my Roman Catholicism, I often offer up my ability to understand or, occasionally, not understand. I don't understand why Bill left us so soon.

However, I am blessed to recall two components of Bill's character that will remain with me forever.

First, as a Marine he was a warrior. I have included a hard copy of two award citations. The first, a Combat Action Ribbon citation, I authored as I was a first-hand witness to his courageous and selfless actions. The second, a Navy and Marine Corps Medal citation, was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Dan Murner USMC (Ret.). I know Bill received the latter award as I had Colonel J. J. Doyle USMC (Ret.) present it to Bill at my request. Bill had no idea the presentation was going to occur the day he visited me at Valley Forge Military Academy and College. I was glad to surprise him with this honor. He was brave and gallant. We went on several missions together in Ramadi. I knew Bill had my back – always.

Second, when I was in Iraq, during my second tour, Bill took my eldest son, JC, to the Philadelphia Zoo. He provided my pregnant bride, Mary Kay, a much needed afternoon of relaxation that she so richly deserved. Bill, as was his style, did not make a big deal about his effort, he just did it – typical Bill.

As did many, I admired Bill greatly. Now, I will enjoy the world a little less knowing he is no longer with us. My faith does not allow me to completely understand why he has left us and with that I struggle. However, in his memory I will bravely attempt to smile a little more often, complain a little less, be a little more gracious to others and – above all – maintain a proper and balanced perspective as to what really matters in this life. That balance is the greatest gift Bill gave me. And when others were protecting their own a**'s first, Bill “Teapot” Dahm ensured his fellow Marines were safe first - before himself.

I see him standing over me, scanning the horizon, returning fire, completing a deal, raising a glass. Bill was larger than life itself. If such a recollection does not define “hero” then I do not know one that does.

I miss Teapot. I miss him terribly. I honor him today by committing to living a better and larger life.

I hope you will call upon me if I am ever able to assist your family in any way that I can. Thank you.

Very Respectfully & Semper Fidelis

J. C. Church, Jr.
Colonel USMCR

Assistant Professor
English Communication Department

Bill Quinn

June 6, 2013

" Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference. The Marines don't have that problem."

Ronald Reagan

June 6, 2013

he lit up a room --- his charisma was endless

Christy Hopkins Rutt

June 6, 2013

Seeing that smile brings back a flood of memories, my friend. I never laughed harder than when you were around. Quite the story teller, your observations were equally amusing. Thanks for keeping my chin up on so many occasions. You were always the life of any room you were in! Our TT and TB days are some of my fondest Philadelphia memories. Be at peace now.

Dubai Stock Exchange

June 6, 2013

Miami...

June 6, 2013

Dubai

June 6, 2013

[email protected]

June 6, 2013

Dubai...

June 6, 2013

Dubai 2006

June 6, 2013

Billy in Iraq

Bill von Dahm

June 5, 2013

Billy,

My dear son...You were a true “Renaissance Man” who lived life to the fullest. You loved to hunt and fish, you painted beautiful pictures in water colors, you sang like Sinatra, great golfer, a man's man and women were crazy about you! The great Tony Bennett said, that dinner with you was unforgettable and he never laughed so hard in his life.

Playing basketball with you and Billy III, a few years ago was a blast. The very last words you uttered to me were, “ I love You,” and I think about that almost every day.

No father wants their child to leave this earth before them, although, I am very sad, I am also trusting that you are in good surroundings in heaven. I miss you terribly.

Love,
Dad

Lynne Schneider

June 5, 2013

Bill was a gentleman on all accounts and always had a smile on his face, always a positive attitude. He will be missed. Am sorry for the loss of your father. He will be missed by many people around the world.

Loved you Billy...

Bill Quinn

June 5, 2013

Gina

June 4, 2013

Dearest Billy, You possessed "Shibumi" all along. The Brightest Star in the sky...is what you are. Nothing but love for you...near or far.

June 4, 2013

The world's just not quite as funny anymore. There's an empty space.
A

Lcpl. Klimtzak Steven D. (USMC Ret.)

June 3, 2013

I am beyond words.
Having the chance to know you while we served together made me a better person. Your words of wisdom will stay with me always. I thank you for your service and for your friendship. Guard those Pearly Gates.
Semper Fi brother.

Paula Malagoli

June 3, 2013

Dear Julie,
So sorry for the loss of your dad. We are thinking of you and we miss you.
Love Paula
HUP MRI

Robb Boland

June 3, 2013

Billy,
Although I am saddened beyond words, I am grateful for having you as a friend. I am sure you are making everyone in heaven laugh harder than they ever have! I will cherish and miss the fun times we had and the life lessons you taught me. You truly left a positive mark on the world. Thank you for everything you did for me and this country.
God Bless You My Friend,
Robb

June 3, 2013

Julie, so sorry for your loss. We are all thinking of you.

Paula Malagoli
HUP MRI

Lori VonDahm

June 3, 2013

My brother Billy, I will always remember your free spirit and living life each day like it was your last. I have regrets that we did not have a closer relationship over the past few years but you have left me with some wonderful and at times crazy childhood memories. Growing up you were the man of the family. There is no doubt you were a great father! I am sad you are gone... And one day I will see you again and make up for the lost time in heaven.

Your loving sister who wishes things were different, but now you are not suffering.

Lori

John Church

June 3, 2013

Marine,

I am saddened beyond words.

I will enjoy life a little less now that you have reported to St. Peter.

Thank you for your service to country and to Corps. I am a better Marine and a better man for having known you and serving along side you in harm's way.

May God Bless you.

Semper Fidelis!

J. C. Church, Jr.
Colonel USMCR

June 2, 2013

Billy, you were larger than life itself. You always said that the candle that burns the brightest burns the shortest. I feel honored to have shared the years we had together. Thank you for all of your life lessons, especially to live each day fearlessly as if it were my last. You taught by example.

You will forever live in my cherished memories and in my heart.

Love always

June 2, 2013

Dad, Dahm's don't cry so I'm trying my best. I will miss hanging out with you, it was always an adventure. You encouraged me so much and gave me great advice. I love you and u will always be with me wherever I go. Xo pop, Jules

Jules

June 2, 2013

Dad, Dahm's don't cry so I'm trying my best. I will miss hanging out with you it was always an adventure. You encouraged me so much and gave me great advice. I love you and u will always be with me wherever I go.

June 2, 2013

Daddy, you were the most unique, one-of-a-kind man I have ever known. I always had the best stories because of you! You made my life that much more interesting and special, and I will treasure all the times we have had together as a family. I wish Anya had more time to get to know you, since there is never going to be anyone else in her life quite like you, Dad. But you live on in all the memories that I have and I cannot wait to share all of them with her. Will love you and miss you always Dadio. xo, Jamie

Christopher von Dahm

June 2, 2013

Everytime I saw or spoke with Billy, my 1/2 brother, he fearlessly inspired me to be a better man, and to walk with no fear. Bill Dahm was a true man. A real man, a real father, and a true American.

Barbara Michie

June 2, 2013

I will always have the fond memories of his growing up. The loving memories will always be with me. He made me very proud. Thank God I was his Mother.

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