Firemen’s Band Pay Tribute to Bill Steim
by David Croyle
In every community, there are leaders that rise to the forefront that achieve extraordinary things for the common good. Such was Bill Steim from Wick City.
Last night, members of the Kittanning Firemen’s Band gathered at Kittanning Hose Company #1 and paraded to the Snyder-Crissman Funeral Home to pay their respects to the man who Director Drew Fennell credited with saving the band from extinction.
“He was actually the driving force behind reforming the band. It had dissolved in the late 1960s, and he was the one that brought it back together. So, in a way, it is possible we might not be here today had he not done what he did.”
Bill was known as a self-employed electrician around town. He was a member of the Kittanning Firemen’s Band from 1969 until 2011. He spent time raising money in 2011 and organized a WWII Veteran’s trip to Washington, DC - an crowning achievement of which he was proud to participate.
“We are here to honor him and remember everything he has done for the organization. From my perspective, I think people like Bill Steim are so important to little communities like ours, because without them, the communities themselves would cease to function.”
As the band processed to the front sidewalk of the funeral home, they began to play various tunes that at one time, Bill had played with them in the percussion section. Family and friends lined the street as well as the front porch. As the band concluded the first number, there was hesitation - then applause… not only for the band, but for the memory of Bill Steim. Some stood reverently, some wept, some held back tears. But all appreciated the memorial music that could be heard throughout the block.
Viewing will continue on today, September 23, from 10AM until the time of a funeral service at 11AM. Pastor Edward Walters will be assisted by Pastor Chuck Layne in officiating the service at the funeral home. Interment will be in the Rimer Hill Cemetery.
Members of the Kittanning Firemen’s Band assemble outside the Snyder-Crissman Funeral Home last night to play a tribute concert during the viewing of Bill Steim.
Local News | David Croyle September 23, 2015
