February 14, 200620 yr I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but Bill Moran died yesterday morning about 4:30 am. William F. Moran was one of the most famous modern knife makers. Bill was one of the driving forces to organizing the American Bladesmith Association, and the ABS school in Arkansas. He is also known as "the father of modern damascus". (Bill was also a better than decent blacksmith). He was a humble man that always had an encouraging word for new knifemakers. Bill was one of the nicest people I have had the honor of knowing. Ring the anvil to send him on his way in style. For those close enough, or those wishing to make a contribution, here are the funeral arrangements: Funeral Arrangements The viewing hours for receiving friends are on Thursday, Feb. 16th from 3:00-5:00 & 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. The funeral will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday the 17th. Both days are at the Keeney & Basford Funeral Home, 106 East Church Street, Frederick, Maryland 21701. Bill's remains will be cremated after that and the Inurnment will be at the Mt. Olivet Cemetery at 10 a.m. on Saturday the 18th. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions should be sent to the W. F. Moran Endowment Fund C/O American Bladesmith Society PO Box 1481 Cypress, Texas 77410-1481 Or to: W. F. Moran Museum Fund C/O Landmarks Foundation attn: Don Keel 6739 South Clifton Road Frederick, Maryland 21703. They are turning his blacksmith/bladesmith shop into a museum. I know Bill was heavily involved with the planning. Pam
February 14, 200620 yr Author For those planning to ring the anvil.....Bill was 80 years old. Also, online condolences may be expressed at www.keeneybasford.com
February 17, 200620 yr There is a short newspaper article on Bill at the link below http://www.fredericknewspost.com/sections/news/display.htm?storyid=46563
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.