William Stevenson Gohn

Bill Gohn was born on February 16, 1939 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Amelia and Emil Gohn. After graduating from Lansdowne-Aldan High School in 1957, he earned a degree in psychology from Penn State University and also met the love of his life, Elizabeth (Libby) Voss. They were married in 1961 and have been on life's journey together ever since.

Bill spent his summers in Beach Haven, New Jersey, where he learned to love the sea and sailing. It was also where he honed his work ethic: each summer morning, Bill would rise before dawn and bike to Marvel's Market, where he had the early shift making doughnuts. By noon, he was on the water. During the school year, he acted in school plays, played the cello and sang in Penn State's Glee Club.

That passion for sailing stayed with him his entire life. As a young executive in Cleveland, Ohio, Bill raced in regattas each Saturday morning. Later, when he was transferred to Baltimore, Maryland, he traded sailing for boating and spent weekends exploring the Chesapeake Bay with his family. After retiring to Pawleys Island, South Carolina, Bill continued his watery explorations, charting the tidal rivers and creeks like the seaman that he was.

No matter where he was, Bill documented his experience with his camera, capturing light, emotion and energy with every click of the shutter. Though his favorite subjects were his family, he was known to joyfully trespass to get just the right shot.

Bill worked for SCM Chemicals for almost 40 years, rising from a personnel director to an executive vice president with responsibility for negotiating contracts throughout the U.S. and in Scotland, England, China and Australia. He was passionate about his work and the challenge of international trade negotiations. Long after retirement, he remained in close touch with colleagues all over the world.

Bill loved being around people, especially his family, who miss him terribly.

Bill is survived by his wife of 59 years, Elizabeth (Libby) Voss Gohn; his daughter Katie McElveen (Bill); son Steven (Katie); and grandchildren Kiki McCaslin and Will, Max and Lizzie Gohn.

Due to COVID concerns, a private family service will be held later this week. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.