Contributions to the tribute of William Otto Achtermeier

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kevin posted a condolence

your name came up in a conversation the other day and someone told me you had passed, i had no idea. you were one of my favorite teachers. you will be missed by the minds you helped shape and even more by those you never had a chance to. p.s. i intentionally left you a few grammatical and spelling errors so you could correct one more paper for me. goodbye and thanks for the stories

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Michelle Pawlowski posted a condolence

This man was the most inspirational person in my life. I was a student of his at Putnam High and he was highly respected. He never accepted less than he knew I could give and for that I will be eternally thankful. He taught me to always do my best. Just a wonderful man!

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Sam Wilson posted a condolence

I had Mr. Achtermeier for freshman English in 1989. Of all the high school teachers I ever had, I remember him the most clearly. He was an inspiration to me mostly after I became an adult. Perhaps my fondest memory was his dignity and concern for each of his sutdents. He treated everyone with the same measure of respect that one would expect from such a distinuished gentleman. He will be sorely missed.

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Gregory Izbicki posted a condolence

I will greatly miss my freshman year English teacher. I often found him to be an excellent source of humor, knowledge, and inspiration.

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James Edwards posted a condolence

To Ms. Bonnie, and David, my most sincere and heartfelt condolences. I am unable to think of Mr. A without a vivid visual of him at the board clad in navy blue coat/slacks, lightly dusted w/ chalk dust, pointing to some nameless student, with his elevated brow. I was indeed blessed to have sat under his instuction. What I appreciate most was his way of turning a question to him into a question of self. He would tactfully guide me (an I'm sure countless others) to search inside first rather than seek the easy answers. And, of course, his stories. I managed to remain in touch with Mr. A and even after 30+ years, I still found myself the student. He saved the best for last. God bless you Bill,

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becky (bigelow) lambert class of 1984 posted a condolence

i will always remember mr. achtermeier - he was one of my favorite teachers. i am fortunate to have been in his english lit class. i truly enjoyed his sense of humor and wit and the way in which he interacted with us. i admired him, not only for his intelligence, but for his desire to make us all better people and his unique way of doing that.. for these things and more, i am greatful to have known him. i was so pleased to speak with him this past summer to invite him to the 20th year class reunion of my class and equally delighted that he happily agreed to attend.. and deeply saddened to speak with him months later to find that he was gravely ill.. my heartfelt sympathy to the family for your loss.. take comfort in knowing that he is so very fondly remembered by so many.

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Beverly Chrzan Schott posted a condolence

Mr. Achtermeier was my favorite English teacher of all time. I had him twice, 1971 as a Freshman and again in 1975 as a senior. It is because of Mr. Achtermeier that I went on to study English and now teach at Northwestern Connecticut Community College in Winsted, CT. I remember talking with Mr. Achtermeier when I was at UConn back in 1979,and his advice to me was, "Study remedial reading because the crop of illiterates grows each year." I took his advice and went on to get my certification in Reading. Last fall I found his name and link on the PHS website and I emailed him. He replied with a funny remark, as he always would, and lauded me for my achievements. I told him, of course, I would not have gone on if it weren't for his great teaching and incredible style. Mr. Achtemeier, thank you for blessing me with your gifts. May your legacy touch many, many students in the years to come. You will be missed...

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Alan Carrier posted a condolence

Mr. Achtermeier was the one and only true teacher for me during my years at PHS. He always pushed his students to think more openly, expanding our narrow perspectives. He was a great example and mentor to us all. He will be sorely missed.

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Rev/ John T. McGeean posted a condolence

I knew William Otto Achtermeier years ago. My younger sister and Bill's sister Rosie were great friends in grade school and Bill would get the job of walking Rosie homw which meant a trip to our house. Bill would get into political discussions that would go on and on. Bill even got my dad's copy of the congressional record and testimony in the famous "Army/McCarthy" hearings of the spring of 1954. Bill's sister Marianna recently got in contact with me and I got a nice note from Bill in January, right before he got so bad. We had not talked in 47 or so years. It was a beautiful note written by a man who knew he was medically "in trouble." I never got around to answering it, to my regret--though I intended to answer it the day before he died and I learned that he would be dead before the mail reached his home. The following is written to him: Hey Otto: I have just read what your former students have read of you. I am reminded that in the Book of the Prophet Daniel we read: Those who instruct many unto justice will shine as stars for all eternity. My friend, may you shine brightly and may you rest in peace. John T. McGeean

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marianna grossman posted a condolence

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure... I remember my brotheer Bill and his sister using money from their paper route to buy a puppy w/o Mom and Dad knowing it. He had the power of persuasion even then--we were able to keep the puppy. Bill was also instrumental in finding someone brave enough to teach me how to drive and then gently coerced me into getting a driver's license. His love of literature started when he was quite young and he always had a book in his hand--and, quite often when he was supposed to be helping with the chores. Special memories and special moments. He will be missed. His sister

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Mary (Duffy) Schlehofer posted a condolence

Bill Achtermeier's presence and influence during my schooling experiences at Putnam H.S. factors heavily into my decision to pursue and finally accomplish my "dream deferred" of becoming an English teacher at 47 years of age. He was by far the coolest, funniest, and most talented teacher I had the privilege of knowing. I am blessed to have discovered the great mysteries and beauty of literature through Bill's inherent ability to impart knowledge while making learning seem fun and worthwhile. Who else could present Moby Dick in class in such a manner that prompted you to actually want to re-read it on your own? They say there is a science behind good teaching; Bill Achtermeier certainly had that part of teaching down pat. More importantly, Bill mastered the "art" of teaching. I thank him for this; and will fondly remember the memories, the great stories, the laughter, and our shared love of books as I carry on the torch of teaching students all the wonders of literature.

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rosie weinrauch posted a condolence

Early morning and afternoon paper routes, fishing trips to Lake Michigan's Belmont Harbor,the strong box we built to save our money for Christmas gifts, our dreams of having a heliport on top of tall skyscrapers--of course, we would own the skyscrapers,and sharing our secrets -- these are the special memories I shall always hold close to my heart. Thanks, Bonnie, for giving Bill the gift of a lifetime -- your love. He deserved the best and found it in you. Fondly, his "little" sister

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Nancy E. Fraser (Petajasoja) posted a condolence

Uncle Bill, as I affectionately remember him, influenced my life in many ways. He inspired my love for literature, writing, and law. I picture the cardigan sweater, and recall his exact tone when reciting aloud a particularly poor essay written by one of my classmates (or me), peppered with his sharp wit and keen sense of humor. I truly never had a dull moment while sitting at the desk to his right; rather, I believe the years I sat in his class were most remarkable as they were special, magical times. I passed through his class from time to time, perhaps just to see if my memories were if fact accurate and not polished by nostalgic thoughts of youth. Mr. Achtermeier, always ready to banter, laugh, and offer kind words of wisdom continued to amaze me. I consider myself amongst the fortunate; I was a student of Mr. Achtermeier’s. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

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Tracy (Petajasoja) Scala posted a condolence

Dear Mr. Achtermeier (affectionately known as "Uncle Bill") ~ Thank you for the hilarious "Oh no Mr. Bill" shows, the "Flying Zucchini Brothers", "Manual Labor" and "equal opportunity" quizzes. How did we ever get any work done in class? Thank you for your dedication, compassion and caring. Thank you for your passion of the English literature and your unique ability to share it with others. Thank you for touching my life and the lives of so many. Quite simply...thank you. You are well loved! Tracy (Petajasoja) Scala PHS Class of 1983

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Rachel Remillard-Bamber posted a condolence

I am one of the few who never had the pleasure of having Mr. Achtermeier, but I can recall the larger than life man he was. He will be greatly missed by many. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

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Tracy (Petajasoja) Scala posted a condolence

Dear Mr. Achtermeier (affectionately known as "Uncle Bill") ~ Thank you for the hilarious "Oh no Mr. Bill" shows, the "Flying Zucchini Brothers", "Manual Labor" and "equal opportunity" quizzes. How did we ever get any work done in class? Thank you for your dedication, compassion and caring. Thank you for your passion of the English literature and your unique ability to share it with others. Thank you for touching my life and the lives of so many. Quite simply...thank you. You are well loved! Tracy (Petajasoja) Scala PHS Class of 1983

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Tracy (Petajasoja) Scala posted a condolence

Dear Mr. Achtermeier (affectionately known as "Uncle Bill") ~ Thank you for the hilarious "Oh no Mr. Bill" shows, the "Flying Zucchini Brothers", "Manual Labor" and "equal opportunity" quizzes. How did we ever get any work done in class? Thank you for your dedication, compassion and caring. Thank you for your passion of the English literature and your unique ability to share it with others. Thank you for touching my life and the lives of so many. Quite simply...thank you. You are well loved! Tracy (Petajasoja) Scala PHS Class of 1983

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Fr. Kenneth Kleiber posted a condolence

I was one of Otto's classmates at St. Mary of the Lake Seminary in Mundelein, Illinos. He was one of my best friends. We both have been through a great deal together. Rest-in-peace, my friend & brother!

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Victor Sportsmen's Club posted a condolence

Bill served as Secretary in our club for many years. He was well thought of by the members and will be missed. He was so knowledgable on so many subjects that it was a joy to listen to him speak.

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Pamela (Johnson) Lewerenz posted a condolence

Mr. Achtermeier was a great English teacher at Putnam High. He always made the students feel special and able to succeed. He will be missed and remembered fondly.

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Joe Mueller posted a condolence

I was a classmate of Otto's at St. Mary of the Lake Seminary. Schlaf in Ruh, Otto. The Lord bless you and keep you, Otto, and all your loved ones.

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M. Brodeur posted a condolence

What better eulogy for Mr. Achtermeier than the words of Shakespeare himself? ------------------ Requiescat in Pace Mr. Achtermeier ------------------ "Fear no more the heat o' the sun, Nor the furious winter's rages; Thou thy worldly task hast done, Home art gone, and ta'en thy wages: Fear no more the frown o' the great; Thou art past the tyrant's stroke; Care no more to clothe and eat; To thee the reed is as the oak: Fear no more the lightning flash, Nor the all-dreaded thunder-stone; Fear not slander, censure rash; Thou hast finish'd joy and moan: Ghost unlaid forbear thee! Nothing ill come near thee! Quiet consummation have; And renowned be thy grave!" Cymbeline, Act 4, Scene 2

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Aimee (Saucier) Coleman posted a condolence

I was deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Achtermeier's passing. I was a student in his Freshman English class and in his Senior English Literature class. I loved being in his class. My love of reading was fostered in his class. From the Hobbit to Jane Eyre, Gulliver's Travels to The Heart of Darkness, I learned to truly comprehend the the subtleties of literature. Mr. Achtermeier was always quick with a joke (a very unique sense of humor!)and I find myself to this day thinking of some of the oddities that he shared with us. I am a teacher now, and I regret not sharing with him how much I loved his class. My deepest sympathies, Aimee (Saucier) Coleman, Class of 1988

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Kluane LaBelle posted a condolence

Mrr. Achtermeier was one of my favorite teachers. He was amazing - as a teacher, person, and friend. He made such an important differnece in my life. He will be missed.

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Deborah (Bellerose) Lefebvre posted a condolence

I loved Mr. Achtermeier, as did pretty much everyone who ever had the pleasure of being entertained and enlightened in one of his classes. For me, he was the first teacher who made learning things--especially difficult or dreary lessons--both fun and entertaining. He was an enormous and positive influence on my life; it was largely due to him that I majored in English and am today a teacher of the same. In fact, he is the kind of teacher I aspire to be every day. I am honored to say that I could call him a friend after I graduated from PHS. In looking over the kind words of so many whose lives he touched, I am reminded of author W.B. Yeats' (introduced to me by Mr. Achtermeier!)thoughts: "Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." Truer words could not be spoken about him!

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Travis Sirrine posted a condolence

Bill was my teacher when I first met him. From then on a great friend. I feel honored to have had that friendship and will carry it with me always.

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Melissa Lajeunesse Ward posted a condolence

Mr. Achtermeier was an amazing teacher, mentor and friend. Klu & I still talk about his stories. He made me a better person, and he will be with me always.

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Jim Longo posted a condolence

Bill Achtermeier was the best teacher I ever had. He taught me how to love writing and made me a better writer. No other man other than my father Nick had more influence over me than Mr. Achtermeier.

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Anonymous posted a condolence

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Alisa Sheridan posted a condolence

I will never forget Mr. Achtermeier, or how to spell his last name. I was a student of his for British Literature. He was a wonderful teacher, and taught us not only about Literature, but as well about life in general. He was a nice man and teacher. He will always be remembered in my heart.

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The Don Steinbricks posted a condolence

For 24 years we've known and respected Mr.Achtermeier as our sons' English teacher. He, and he alone guided both with an intense gift of English. Today, they both have a grasp of English that was Mr. Achtermeier's "gift" to them. We'll be forever thankful.

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Debbie St. Jean posted a condolence

I truly enjoyed Mr. Achtermeir's English class. His sense of humor always made his class interesting. My sympathy to your family.

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LISA (RASICOT) HAWTHORNE posted a condolence

My literature teacher at Putnam High School in the mid 80's, he had a very unique and matter of fact way of teaching. I suppose it was the same way he lived his life. The thing that stands out most was my senior year.. He very graciously would lecture to the class how life was just beginning for us. Never realizing then his insight was spoken from experience.

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Putnam Chiropractic Center posted a condolence

So sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Frederick Barks, Vin Woods and Staff

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Susan Randolph posted a condolence

I have a very close friend, his name is Dr.Diamondes Papadopoulos. Just last month Monde (our nickname for him) Shared with me,a conversation he had with you, Mr.Achtermeier. I cannot express how much of an impression that made on me. Thirty years after high school,you still touch my life. I can thank you from the bottom of my heart for your committment to all of us. Tonight my prayer's are with your family. I'm sure you are smiling at all of us trying to despartely type our tributes correctly. You ARE a true teacher...........!

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Angela Vaillant posted a condolence

Mr. A was one of my favorite teachers at PHS (94). It was always a positive experience entering his classroom. He would stand up on his podium, tell some jokes, make us all laugh hyserically, and then get to work. He was a unique man, very intelligent and very funny. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He was taken far too soon, but I am sure he will still be making people laugh and teaching others up in Heaven. I wish I had the chance to tell him that he left a positive influence on not only me, but my two sisters as well, one of whom became an English teacher. Peace be with you all at this difficult time and always. Sincerely, Angela Vaillant

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John Fulco posted a condolence

Bill was the first English Department Chair that I worked with in public education. He amazed me with his knowledge in the field of English and he was supportive of me in my first years of teaching high school. We shared the experiences of my being newly married and my becoming a new father. Bill was there to share with me in the birth of all three of my children. We shared many good laughs and I appreciate all that he did to make me a successful teacher at Putnam High School.

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Claire Q. Mackowiak posted a condolence

Mr. Achtermeier was one of my teachers starting in 1970 at PHS. He was a wonderful teacher and a very kind person. He will be missed by many.

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Terry Guertin posted a condolence

Sorry to hear of the passing of one of Putnam High School's best former teachers. His dedication to the students will always be remembered.

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AnneMarie Larkin posted a condolence

Your stories will live forever. Thank you.

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Kevin Gaudreau & Family posted a condolence

Although greatly missed, Bill will not be one less face in my auction crowed, memories of him will last forever. over the years Bill has not only been a good friend but a wealth of information in his field. I will miss the lengthly evening phone conversations & the sharing of a good joke or story. To bill's loved ones, espiecialy Bonnie & David...you have my deepest sympathy keep in touch. Kevin Gaudreau auctioneer

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Peggy & Joe Chase posted a condolence

Bonnie, We send our sympathy to you and your family at the death of Bill. Our prayers are with you. Love, Peggy and Joe Chase Stockbridge, GA 30281

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Andy Saucier posted a condolence

I’m very sad to hear of the passing of William Achtermeier. I was a student in Mr. Achtermeier’s Freshman English class in 1986-87, and in his English Literature class in 1989-90. From the mundane task of diagramming sentences to intense discussions of George Orwell’s "1984", Mr. Archtermeier had a gift for making his classes the most entertaining period of the school day. He was always quick with a joke and always spoke to us like we were adults, not teenagers. I didn’t realize how much I had learned in Mr. Achtermeier’s classes until after I had graduated from college and taken a job writing advertising. Suddenly, all of his tireless lessons about subjects and predicates, verb agreement, prepositional phrases and dangling participles made perfect sense. Mr. Achtermeier’s grammar lessons from my freshman year of high school have become invaluable job skills that I continue to use every day. My deepest condolences go out to Mr. Achtermeier’s family and friends. Sincerely, Andrew Saucier Putnam High School Class of 1990

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Alfred and Trudy Schings posted a condolence

We were very saddened to read of the loss of a dear friend . Bill will be greatly missed . He and you will be in our prayers .May God give you the strength to see you through these trying times. You have our utmost sympathy . Bill will be greatly missed but we have many fond memories of him .Stay strong . Al and Trudy Schings

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Kay Bonosconi posted a condolence

Mr. Achtermeier, thank you so much for believing in me.

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Greg & Doreen Bonosconi posted a condolence

Thank you for enriching our lives.

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Anonymous posted a condolence

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Ann M. Russo posted a condolence

Thanks for all the help you have given me and my boys throughout the many years. He has been my friend for many years, and I will sadly miss him at school, yard sales and church suppers. Bye Bill! Love Ann

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Romeo and Joy Blackmar posted a condolence

Joy had Mr. A. as her English teacher and I was in the Senior Play and Mr. A was the Drama Teacher and directed the play. "The Crucible was the play that year. Several times over the past few years I would run into Bill at the Woodstock Post Office. Once I was speaking to a person at the Post Office and Bill was standing off to the side, and remarked, "I didn't even have to look at who was speaking, because I could recognize that voice anywhere." I was suprised that Mr. A recognized me by my voice.

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Randy Guillot posted a condolence

Although it has been 20 years, his lessons, style and the substance of his character have stayed with me. Through his belief in the power of the written word and the actions it can provoke he inspired generations of people like myself to understand the world around them with just a little more clarity, humor and compassion. Thank you, you will be missed.

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Joseph Caron posted a condolence

I will miss you

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Darlene Caisse Miller posted a condolence

I had the honor of having Mr. Achtermeier as my English teacher in the mid-70's. He was a teacher that you always fondly remembered and talked about at class reunions or just when seeing an old classmate. My daughter also had the great opportunity to have him teach her in one of his last years of teaching. Because of his teaching skills and all of his great stories he will always be remembered as one of Putnam's favorite teachers. He will be greatly missed.

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Richard Gott Jr posted a condolence

I graduated from Putnam High in 1980, and I remember him very well. He was my favorite teacher. I don't remember a bad class with him. He always made me laugh with his sharp wit, especially when he used it to handle the more distrupted students. I don't remember a student ever getting the best of him or his sense of humor. He was the one that had us read the books behind the Lord of The Rings movies ... such as 'The Hobbit'. I value having read those books, because the movies so well reflect the literature. Most people I know have never read the books. Putnam High was fortunate to have him for his positive engagement of students, using a little fun and humor to sustain our interest in what I would ordinarily find boring. I miss him knowing he's gone, and I haven't seen him in over 20 years.

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debbie posted a condolence

you will be sadly missed

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Emily Vaillant posted a condolence

Mr. Achtermeier was one of my favorite teachers at Putnam High School. He wanted his students to do their best and constantly emphasized that. I'll always remember his stories, particulary the ghost stories he loved to tell! May he rest in peace.

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Roberta Sharpe posted a condolence

I'll never forget the wonderful education in English I received through Mr. A. Taking part in the senior play under his direction was the highlight of my years at PHS. Your family is in my prayers.

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Dave Carter uploaded photo(s)

Wednesday, April 15, 2015

William Otto Achtermeier

1941 - 2005

Gagnon and Costello Funeral Home

Smith and Walker Funeral Home

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