William Daniel Dettwiller

William Daniel Dettwiller passed away peacefully on Monday, June 15, 2026 at the age of 81. He was the beloved husband of Margaret Favalora Dettwiller. Loving father of Traci Dettwiller Hon (Kevin), Spencer Dettwiller (Robin), Patrick Dettwiller (Judy), and Mitchell Dettwiller (Robin). Son of the late Pauline Sensebe Dettwiller and William Dettwiller Jr. Brother of Danny Dettwiller and Christian Dettwiller. Proud grandfather of Courtney (Paul), Megan, Jennifer (David), Lindsey, Aiden and Breysen. Great grandfather of Rosalee and Jameson. He is also survived and fondly remembered by Dee Dee & Charlie Licciardi, Buster Favalora, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Willie was born at home on N. Robertson Street in New Orleans, LA and spent many years as a proud resident of St. Bernard Parish before making his home in Hammond, LA. To those who knew and loved him best, he was simply “Poppa” - a title he carried with immense pride and affection.

Willie embraced life with an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for making memories. Alongside his beloved wife, Margaret, and their longtime travel companions and partners in crime, Joe and Wanda Zeringue, they explored the world on countless cruises and unforgettable journeys. Together, they set foot on all seven continents, kissed the Blarney Stone in Ireland, walked the Great Wall of China, swam in Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, and braved the fierce 100-mile-per-hour winds of the Drake Passage. Their travels were filled with stories that became family legends, including the oft-retold tale (still debated to this day) that Willie once threatened to punch a camel while visiting Egypt. Whether fact or folklore, the story perfectly reflects the bold, spirited, and larger-than-life personality that made him so memorable.

A dedicated and hardworking man, Willie enjoyed a distinguished career as a pipefitter for more than 25 years. Beginning as an apprentice with Lou-Con, he went on to become a respected member of the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 60. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he built throughout his career. He also spent many years working alongside his brother Chris in the Dump Truck business, where he became known as "Wild Willie." Later in life, as the years brought a little more wisdom and a little less mischief, he was affectionately known as "Mild Willie."

Willie also found joy in his many hobbies and passions. He was an avid bowler and a longtime member of the Friday Night Late Night Owl League at Garden Bowl in Chalmette. In the 1970s and 1980s, he became a familiar and beloved presence at Borgnemouth Park, where he dedicated his time to coaching and mentoring young athletes. He also loved family trips to Disney, where he became famous for waking everyone long before sunrise to make the most of every magical day.

Above all else, Willie's greatest love was his family - especially his grandchildren. He cherished every moment spent with them and delighted in spoiling them whenever he could. The love he gave so freely will remain one of his greatest legacies.

Willie found happiness in the simple details of everyday life and cared deeply for the people around him. He will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, his devotion to family, his generous heart, his laughter and the countless ways he made those he loved feel special.

Rest in peace, our dear Willie. You showed us what it means to care for others with kindness, dedication and an open heart. You will be so deeply missed and lovingly remembered beyond what words can possibly express.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Thursday, June 18th from 10:00AM – 1:00PM, followed by a Funeral Mass in Willie’s memory beginning at 1:00PM. He will be laid to eternal rest in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens Cemetery.