William W Bair

William W. Bair, 93 of Lancaster went to be with his Lord Saturday, June 21, 2025. William lived at Willow Valley since 1998. He was employed as the Fire Chief/Safety Training Coordinator at Armstrong World Industries for over 44 years, retiring in 1993.

He is survived by his three daughters, Darla Bair of Lancaster, PA, Wendy Dion of Seattle, WA. and Heidi Bair of Lancaster, PA. He also has two granddaughters, Molly Sotherden and Emily John, one great-grandson Oliver John and a sister, Dawne Mellinger, of Lititz. He was preceded in death by wives Esther Watt and Marion Bair.

He was active within Grace Lutheran Church. He served on the Evangelism committee and Worship and Music committee and was head usher at the early service for many years.

“Smokey” as he was called, was a Pennsylvania State Certified Fire Instructor for over 50 years. He served as an adjunct instructor for two community colleges, teaching in their Fire Science curriculums. He founded the Lancaster County Foam Task Force and served as its coordinator. He was appointed by Governor Thornburgh to serve on the State Professional Qualification Board for emergency service personnel. “Flammable Liquids Fire Fighting with Foam Agents” was a program he developed and taught throughout the state. He was chairman of the Foundation of the Lancaster County Public Safety Training Center. He was a life member of the Lancaster County Firemen’s Association, life member of the Denver Fire Company and the Union Fire Company of Lebanon, and member of the Lancaster County Fire Chief’s Association. He was very interested in local history and was a member of the Lancaster History.org and the Conestoga Area Historical Society. William was a volunteer tour guide and member of the Historic Lancaster Walking Tours for over 20 years.

He was very active in many activities while living at Willow Valley. He was chairman of the wood shop where he spent many hours carving and making things for family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, 501 N. Queen St., Lancaster Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 11:00, with Pastor Stephen Verkouw officiating. Interment will be private at the convenience of family. Memorial remembrances can be made to: Grace Lutheran Church or the Lancaster County Food Hub, formerly the Lancaster Council of Churches Food Bank.