William J. Dettmann

I'll remember Bill for the kindest smile I've ever seen. Though I didn't know him long, it was obvious that he was a good man. Every time I stop for an Oberweis shake, I'll think of him, and I'll send a smile back his way. My heart and prayers are with his family.

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

So sadden to hear of the loss of a very loving soul.
My prayers go out to Bill's family.

Tricia Tarry Pacelt

I can't believe that Bill is gone. He was a special person and always had a smile. Bill and I went to HS together and both grew up in WC. My Dad was fortunate to work with Bill for many years and will miss him terribly. All our love to Bill's family and friends, we are all better to have known him.

Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice. Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you. Blessed are the poor in Spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. And Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. (Ps 17,22, Matt (5:3,4,8)
To everyone who Billy has touched, which are many, I am terribly sorry for your loss. Especially, His wife, mother, siblings, and family. I wish I could have attended his services, but know that in those hours...My prayers were lifted up. In this dark hour of life, It is my prayer that you Hope in the Lord, and cry out to Him for His comfort. God promises to bless those who mourn with comfort. I pray you feel the Presence of God wrapping His loving arms around you during this time, where it feels hard to breathe. May God sustain you and help you to see the hope that Billy (with His pure heart) is blessed for He gets to see God. Though we all feel His life was cut short, We can be thankful that he is not suffering any longer. We can rejoice that he is Healed and celebrate the memories he has left in our hearts. Remember, when you call out to God, He knows your pain...He too, lost His beloved Son, Jesus, on the cross. His shoulders are big enough to carry you through this storm. I love you all and am Praying that you find rest, comfort, peace, and joy in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, and through the memories of our Beloved Billy.

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

I will miss my Uncle Bill terribly. He was probably the most kindhearted person I have ever met and I never heard him utter a mean word about anyone, which is why he and my Aunt Chris were perfect for eachother. I will miss his laugh and the great hugs he gave and I hope he is in a better place where he can golf and fish to his heart's desire. We all love you and miss you!

I consider myself blessed to have known Bill for so long he was a great friend. When Chris and Bill married, these two people were perfect for each other. As long as they were together all was right with world. We had alot of exciting times together from winning the state championship to standing next to Bill while Steve Klingberg flipped Bill's brothers motorcycle licence on the front lawn and telling him "owe you a motorcycle". A train backed over it at the stockyards.That's only a few of many stories I can remember, I could go on forever. They broke the mold when they made Bill,I will truly miss him. He was like a brother to me. Love you Bill, we will miss you.

Bill and I go all the way back to St.Marys grade school in WC and then through West Chicago High School. My wife Lonnie Dierking is also Bill's cousin. I was also fortunate to play a few rounds of golf with Bill up in Wisconsin at our annual outing. I will always remember Bill as a kind person and always a smile when he greeted you. Lon & I will truly miss Bill and may God be with the entire Dettmann & Schekel family during this time.

As a cousin of Billy, I recall his beautiful smile and kind heart.
We grew up with great family memories Christmas', Thanksgivings, Easters, birthdays and just Sundays where 12 energized cousins had endless fun.
I am not surprised that years later to see noted from friends that respected him and adored him . Its a tribute to Bill and his wife and family that loved him and will miss him.
I can only say that having a cousin like Bill was an honor and blessing in my life. And I will never forget the the laughter and joy of those days years ago. Bill is now warming heaven with that smile of his.

Chris, Pat a, Pam, Brian and Lori
All my Love,
Cousin Linda

It was a blessing to know Bill and be counted among his friends. He brought such joy and pleasure to us all and was patient and kind to everyone. He met his true soul mate with Chrissy and they were truly a perfect match. I know that he is looking out for her and is truly an angel. We will take care of her for you and honor your love! We will miss you!

I'm so sorry to hear this news. I went to HS with Bill.
dawn

My thoughts and prayers are with the Dettman Family at this very difficult time.
Its been many years but I remember Bill from High School.
I am truly sorry for your loss.

The man who completed my friend's life. The love shared was great if only for a short time. His laugh was heartfelt and his eyes always caring. The sweetness between Chris and Bill was felt by all. He is now a sweet angel to be remembered and cherished. You will be missed. We will all take care of Chris always.