- Date Of Birth: May 7, 1930
- Date Of Death: January 30, 2013
- State: Maryland
William L. Hand Sr, 82, a resident of Glen Burnie, MD, went to be with his lord on January 30, 2013. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 55 years, Lola L. (McCleaf) Hand.
Bill was the eldest son of William M. and Sylvia M. (Patterson) Hand, born May 7, 1930 in Manor, PA, and raised in Export, PA. Following graduation from Export High School, Bill proudly honored his country with four years of service in the U.S. Navy as an aircraft electronics technician, where his duties included test flights. He attended Tri-State and Johns Hopkins universities, graduating with a degree in electronic engineering. Bill had a distinguished career of 37 years at Westinghouse Corporation in Baltimore, MD. He worked as an engineering logistic manager, responsible for avionics operations and maintenance, which included writing technical manuals for various aircraft. One such project was the C-141 Starlifter aircraft and involved completely dismantling the plane to obtain details regarding its maintenance. This technical manual is still the “go-to” reference guide on C-141’s today.
Bill was known throughout his life for his positive attitude and good cheer toward others. He was an active member of his community and a volunteer and mentor in several organizations. He served as a committee chairman in the Boy Scouts and Explorer Scouts, president of the Suburbia Civic Association and Swim Club, and “Chief” in the Indian Guides. He was a member and elder of the Harundale Presbyterian Church and of the church’s investment club. Bill was a strong advocate for environmental groups throughout the state of Maryland. He enjoyed outdoor activities and was an avid golfer and talented swimmer, as well as an excellent dancer. He enjoyed travelling with his grandchildren and was happiest in the company of his family.
Bill was preceded in death by both of his parents and his sister Marie Eyler. He is survived by the following sisters and brothers: Betty Watson, Lois Schmidt, Edward Hand, and Donald Hand. He is also survived by his children: William L. Hand, Jr. (Beth), Lora L. Eddy (John), Bruce M. Hand (Sandy), and grandchildren: Amanda, Erin, Stacy, Travis, and Scott, as well as many nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces.
