William "Bill" David Dressman

If Bill Dressman isn’t in heaven, there’s no hope for the rest of us. In 93 years, he probably missed church five times. One of those times was for my graduation. That’s just the kind of man he was – devout and devoted to his family and God. Bill passed on February 19, 2022. 

William David Dressman

Born on December 20, 1928 to Elizabeth Milkowski Dressman and George Anthony Dressman, Bill grew up with a sister, Elizabeth Durst. His older brother, John, passed away shortly after birth. Because of this, his mother always told him his life was a gift from God. He grew up in Cumberland, Maryland where he met the love of his life, Christine Joyce Dressman, in elementary school. In his own words, Christine had his eye “ever since he was a young whipper snapper.” The two married on May 14, 1955 and raised four children: Diane Whited, Michael Dressman, Patricia Cain and Teresa Remaley.

He loved music, but not the “noise” kids listen to these days. On weekend mornings, he’d jam his kids out of bed with his record player and the smell of bacon. Bill lived for his family. When his kids were performing with the band, Bill was there. When they went camping, he taught them how to swim. And, when his beloved wife fell ill, he spent every single day by her side, always bringing her thoughtful gifts. 

You could always count on Bill – to be there for you, to keep his word, and to finish every single bite on his plate. Family was his first love, but food was his second. As a proud German/Polish man, he could never get enough potatoes or bread. And sweets? Bill had the biggest sweet tooth of anybody you’ve ever known. He’d eat apple pie for breakfast, lunch and dinner if he could. And some days, he did. He never took the simple pleasures for granted. 

One thing Bill mastered was the look. Ask any of his kids. They all have a story about a time where they got in trouble and all it took was one look, one shake of the head, one disapproving word and they wanted to take it all back.  

Bill loved the holidays. Each Christmas, he’d swear it was the best tree we’d ever had. He was always excited to pick out the turkey and ham. No piece went to waste when he carved it. Each year, Bill would spend hours in the Walmart card aisle picking out the perfect card for your birthday far in advance. He would have his arsenal set, prepared to warm your heart and bring a tear to your eye. 

Bill was the patient dad, the thoughtful husband, the goofy grandpa, the reliable neighbor, the responsible friend, the loyal Steelers fan and so much more. He was our best friend, our pillar when we needed him. 

Like any good husband, Bill knew not to say no to his wife. And when she said it was time for him to come home, he left behind his four children (Diane Whited, Michael Dressman, Patricia Cain, Teresa Remaley), their spouses (Ron Whited, Alan Cain, Bill Remaley), five grandchildren (Samantha LaPointe, Alex Whited, Heather Dressman, Devin and Megan Cain), one great grandson (Tyler LaPointe), and his sister-in-law and her husband (Cathy and Max Lidl).

Viewing will be from 6-8 p.m. on February 27 and the funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on February 28. In lieu of flowers, you can donate to the Lions Club or Holy Angels Catholic Church in Mt. Airy, NC.