January 6, 1939 -July 11, 2022 William J. Volz, Age 83, of Philadelphia, PA, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on July 11, 2022 after a long battle with cancer. Beloved husband of Dolores T (Cartacki) for 51 years. Devoted father to Linda (Jim) Johnson, Bill (Kate) Volz, loving guardian of his nephew John (Denise) Wackes, and niece Beatrice. Treasured Pop to Tom, Luke, Max, Keira & Anna. Cherished brother of Pauline Miller, Jean Burns, Rita Veil, John Volz, Sharon Anglim and the late Helen Volz, Joan Wackes, Clara Barr, Marie Matthews, and Dorothy Wackes. Dear Brother-in-Law to Jane (and the late Stephen) Kane. He will be missed by numerous nieces, nephews and lifelong friends and neighbors.
Bill was born and raised in the Bridesburg section of Philadelphia. He was the seventh of eleven children born to John G. Volz and Helen Operacz. He embraced growing up in this close-knit community while surrounded by his large and loving family. He attended Mastbaum Technical School, and proudly served in the U.S. Army. He spent most of his working years at Sears Roebuck in Northeast Philadelphia until its closure. He was later employed and had a second career with Septa until his retirement.
Bill met the love of his life, Dolores, and settled in the Northwood section of Philadelphia for the remainder of their marriage. They would go on to raise two children and one nephew while being involved in their community. He was very active as a coach with Simpson Athletic Association for many years in the 1980s. As a coach of multiple sports, he made a lasting impact with the neighborhood youth that stands to this day.
Bill was a loving father, and his family meant everything to him. He grew to cherish his role when he became “Pop” later in life. He quietly shared life lessons, laughs and experiences with his five grandchildren. He made the most of his free time in retirement by dining out and traveling all over with Dolores.
Bill spent most of his time over the last 25 years helping veterans at American Legion Post 821 in Bridesburg. He stepped up whenever anything needed to get done and was honored when he became Commander. As Commander, he volunteered all of this time from hosting fundraisers to honoring fallen veterans at funerals. A milestone was when he was named Grand Marshall of the annual Bridesburg Memorial Day Parade. In all that he did, he went the extra mile. His involvement at the Post, along with Dolores, expanded his circle of friends and gave them purpose in their later years.
Bill will be buried with full military honors, so due to cemetery scheduling, his service will be on Tuesday, July 26th. Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing at the SLABINSKI FUNERAL HOME, 2614 Orthodox St., Philadelphia, PA 19137. Viewing 9AM, funeral Service to follow at 11:15AM. Interment at Washington Crossing National Cemetery, Newtown PA.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his honor to the American Legion Post 821 , 4404 Salmon St, Philadelphia, PA 19137, or to Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19111, would be appreciated.