Obituary of Willard C. Dann

Willard "Bill" Dann, 82, of Sidney, unexpectedly went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on November 25, 2024. Born in Sidney, NY on August 7, 1942, to Charles and Elizabeth (Waterman) Dann, he was a lifelong Sidney resident and was an active and valued member of the community. He attended Sidney Central School and graduated with the class of 1961. Bill proudly served in the United States Army from 1965-1967 and was a Medic while stationed in Vietnam. He was wounded in combat by shrapnel and was awarded the Purple Heart. Bill worked as a self-employed painting contractor and chimney sweep for over 50 years until his retirement, doing residential and commercial work throughout the local communities. He was an avid outdoorsman, with a passion for hunting and fishing, and was truly at home in nature. Bill was a dedicated member of the Sidney Fire Department for over 60 years, and also served as fire department Chaplain. In his later years, he was actively involved with the fire police. Bill was a member of the Sidney United Methodist Church and for many years was an active member of the choir. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Bill was affectionately known as "UB" to his nieces and nephews. He was loved by so many and will be deeply missed. Bill is survived by his daughter, Julie, son-in-law, Greg Thompson and granddaughter, Katelyn of Eden Prairie, Minnesota; sister, Rebecca, and brother-in-law, David Leidy of Sidney; former spouse of 25 years, Dorothy (Ross) Dann of Middletown, Delaware; his nieces and nephews: Lisa Dann, Michelle Stewart, Melinda Dann, Michael Leidy (Sarah Kane), Elizabeth Leidy, Carly Livingston, Andrew Stewart (Abby), Jilleen Livingston, and Jeffrey Stewart. Bill is also survived by his special friend of 30 years, Diane Moore. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Elizabeth (Waterman) Dann, brother and best friend, Robert Dann, and his beloved dog and faithful companion, Ferra. Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 29 from 4-8 p.m. at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St. Sidney, with a firemen's service at 7:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 30 at 11 a.m. at the Sidney United Methodist Church, 12 Liberty St. Sidney. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bill's memory to the Sidney Fire Department or Sidney United Methodist Church. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.landersfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, Sidney.