William "Bill" Weidman

Bill and Letty Weidman were made for each other. After meeting at a card party in Savanna, IL, the rest was history. They dated for a short while, before throwing caution to the wind, taking off towards Chicago, and eloping on April 11, 1952. They returned, walked through the door and Bill’s mother knew, asking, “You didn’t get married, did you?” It was clear to Bill, Letty, and anyone who knew them, they had found the love of their lives. Bill and Letty raised two children and celebrated 69 years of marriage until Letty’s passing in 2021. Bill deeply mourned the loss of his soul mate but knew he would be with her again soon. On Friday, December 2nd, Letty came down from heaven to take Bill back to their eternal home with our Lord.

Bill was born April 2, 1930, son of Loyal and Harriet (Schuyler) Weidman. He grew up in Savanna, attending Savanna High School, graduating with the class of 1948. Bill then attended Bradley University where he studied to be a draftsman. Once he completed his schooling, Bill moved back to Savanna to work for the Savanna Army Depot, where he stayed for 40 years.

Bill was the best dad anyone could ask for. He loved to spend time with his children and family, taking the kids hunting, camping, and on many vacations. He was always loving and supportive and would do anything for his kids. But Bill could be a little mischievous, and often played pranks on his loved ones and co-workers. He was a very intelligent man and was sharp as a tac right up until the end. He had a deep interest and knowledge in the military and collected memorabilia and antiques from many wars. In his spare time Bill was a gunsmith, reconditioning firearms that had seen better days. He would take his wares to gun shows where he would sell the newly refurbished guns.

Bill had a strong faith, which guided him throughout his life. He was a lifelong member of the Savanna First United Methodist Church. He was active in his church community, was a member of the Methodist Men, and sat on the church’s administrative board for many years.

Bill will be dearly missed by two children, Becky (Dan Pitman) Weidman of Savanna and David Weidman of Stockholm, Sweden; four grandchildren, Shauna, Aidan, Linman, and Loyalton; and five great-grandchildren. Bill is preceded in death by his wife, Letty, his parents, Loyal and Harriet, his sister, Jean, and many nieces, nephews, brother-in-laws, and sister-in-laws.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 26, at Savanna Township Cemetery in Savanna. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Savanna or to your favorite charity in Bill’s name.