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William “Bill” McMahon passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2015 in Munich, Germany at age 78.
A native of Omaha, Nebraska, Bill initially planned to become a Jesuit priest. But a career path that included his love of philosophy, his administrative ability and a life in Europe was chosen instead. An interest in Europe began during a 1960 ski trip to Innsbruck, Austria, and continued in 1963 when he returned to earn his doctorate in philosophy and education at the University of Innsbruck. The next year he and Carol Thursie were married, and by 1968 their family had grown to four.
Bill’s long association with Maryland’s European Division began as a lecturer in philosophy, and then as an administrator at the division’s headquarters in Heidelberg, Germany. In 1975 he was appointed Resident Dean of the Munich Campus, a position he held until his retirement in 1991. He was quoted as saying, “In my 16 years here, I have seen the Munich Campus grow, improving in quality and reputation and financial stability. It is quite a different institution now than it was in 1975 when I first arrived.” After retirement, Bill and Carol remained in Munich.
Surviving Bill are his wife of 51 years, Carol Thursie McMahon, their sons, Brian and Colin, three grandchildren, and daughters-in-law.
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Jiri Brezina
I am very sad - Bill passed so young. I remember him as Director at the Heidelberg UMUC_E, where he, together with Joe Arden, was one of those deans who provided academic spirit. to the University.
John Nolan
Another good friend and mentor gone- so very sad. A great neighbor, a great colleauge and a great friend. Bill lived below me in Brussels in the summer of 96- claimed he had agreed to come up for the summer term in order to practice his French, but I'd have sworn he was sent to cheer me up. I'll always remember Bill best for his sense of humor Always the talent for unerringly delivering exactly the right line at exacltty the right moment .It made him one of the couple of people who helped pick me up and dust me off at the lowest point of my life, though he probably didn't realize it. He kept it up for years though- even after I moved in at HQ in Heidelberg, every now and then a one or two liner would arrive by Email from Bill, almost by telepathy, and they never failed to make me smile. We'll not see the like of him again- a greeat man indeed.
George Neblett
We remember...
James A. "Jim" Moss
I remember Bill quite well--a gentle, nice, and smart man--and as a fellow philosopher I will remember mostly our discussions about one of our favorite subjects: existentialism. Peace be with you and your family Bill.
Rachel Borg
I didn't know you very long or that well but you always were so calming and reassuring. RIP.
Julie Porosky (Hamlin)
I too am very saddened by this news and add my condolences to Carol and the family. I remember Bill's mischievous sense of humor and his appreciation for the absurd. I remember him being a good sport when we encountered strange logistical challenges at an IUT conference in Japan in the early 1980s. Bill, the planet will miss you.
Daniel Bennette
My condolences to Carol and the family and friends of Bill. He was a true gentleman who emanated peace and tranquility whenever he entered a room. I first met Bill when he was an administrator in Heidelberg, Germany. Later, when he was the successful Dean of Munich Campus, he always made it a habit to stop by to see me when he was in Heidelberg. It was always so enjoyable to be able to speak with him about whatever came to mind. I am deeply saddened to hear that he departed us at such an early age. R.I.P.
Albert Ashforth
I was one of the fortunate people who worked at the Munich campus while Bill was Dean, a job for which he was perfectly suited. I always had the feeling I was welcome in his office to shoot the breeze. He was always amiable, had a great sense of humor and was a good listener. Those were unforgettable years, and Bill did a great deal in helping to make them unforgettable.
Joe Arden
Bill and I first met in the early 1970s...when we both were working in admin jobs in Heidelberg. In addition to our time in the office together, I also went---on quite a few occasions---to the apt where he and Carol lived. To be able ot view on Armed Forces T.V....American sports.
Then, throughout the 1980s and into early 1990s, when Bill was in the Dean's role in Munich, and I was in Heidelberg as European. Director, we saw one another three-four times a year...combination of Bill coming up to HDB for admin staff meetings, and I...going down to Munich on liason visits. On the latter occasions, almost always, the three of us---Bill/Carol/myself....would also be certain to enjoy a dinner together at local restaurants.
It was a pleasure to know Bill...to interact with him, professionally and personally. He was a gracious gentleman...in every sense of the term. Maryland...was MOST fortunate that he was involved the manner he was..for so many years. In addition, the students, faculty, and administrative staff...were indeed even more fortunate that he served as Dean at the Munich Campus for the years and in the manner that he did.
Thanks, Bill. For everything. Joe
Linda Traenkle
I remember Dr. McMahon so very well as my first boss in the Heidelberg offices. He was exceptionally gracious and his delightful sense of humor was more than very helpful in working with my then direct supervisor,the Registrar,a legend in her own time. Without Dr. McMahon's continued support, I am not sure I would have stayed on. In later years when he went to Munich Campus, he became Bill for me and it was always a joy to see him. My deepest sympathy to Carol and the family. Bill McMahon was,and always will be, a true friend to so many. We will miss him.