William B. Bessman

January 17, 1935-August 9, 2023

William Bessman passed away peacefully on August 9, 2023, after a prolonged illness. Born in Brooklyn NY, Bill was a proud New York City firefighter for an elite rescue squad in mid-town Manhattan called Rescue 1. He was eventually promoted to Lieutenant and served in a firehouse in Queens just before he retired. He loved to tell stories about the rescues, the fires, and the special bond of the firefighting family. Most recently, Bill lived in Luther Crest in Allentown with Margarete, his wife of 63 years.

Bill is survived by his oldest daughter Barbara Bennett of Gansevoort, NY, her husband Jeff, and their children, Holly and Steve. Also his youngest daughter, Nancy Werteen, her husband Mike and their children Marleesa and Grace.

He is predeceased by his son, Michael Robert Bessman.

Services are Thursday August 17th at 10:30am in Crest Hall at Luther Crest, 800 Hausman Road in Allentown. To get there, Take Hausman Road north from Tilghman street. Turn left on Southgate Court. At the stop sign, turn right on to Luther Crest Drive. Continue straight and follow signs for Community Center. Turn left into the main entrance and Crest Hall is just inside of the building on the left.

The family would like to thank their extended family, friends and the Luther Crest community and staff as well as Lehigh Valley Health Network Hospice for their kindness, love and support.

Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus is handling arrangements.