In loving memory of

Bill Salzmann
August 8, 1932 - September 9, 2018

William H. Salzmann,

Bill Salzmann, 86, a beloved husband, father and grandfather, and a longtime music educator and musician in Indianapolis, passed away Sept. 9, 2018.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lois; children, Lorraine Marie Peterson (Michael), Jean Salzmann, Ed Salzmann (Kathy), Mary Zehr, Jon Salzmann (Stacy) and Denise Schug (Shanon); and grandchildren Emily, Steven, Megan, Leanna and Max. He was preceded in death by his parents Carl F. and Agnes Salzmann and brother, Gordon D. Salzmann.
Bill spent the better part of three decades as a music teacher in the Indianapolis Public Schools system, serving as band director at Arlington High School in the 1970s and 1980s. He also played oboe and English horn for many years in both the Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Symphonic Band.
A native of Indianapolis, he attended St. Philip Neri Grade School, was a member of the class of 1950 at Cathedral High School, and earned bachelor's and master's degrees from Butler University School of Music.
Friends and family are invited to gather from 5 - 8 pm on Thursday, Sept. 13, 2018 at Leppert Mortuary, 740 E. 86th St., Indianapolis and again on Friday, Sept. 14, 2018 from 9:30 - 10:30 am prior to the Mass of Christian Burial at St. Louis de Monfort Catholic Church, 11441 Hague Road, in Fishers. Bill will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery, Indianapolis.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Online condolences are available at www.leppertmortuary.com.

Tributes

Jeff White wrote on Sep 14, 2018:

"Mr Salzmann was and always will be a positive influence on me. He encouraged me and helped me get to the level I needed to go to Butler University and even get a scholarship, I was in the class of '84 and played saxophone and clarinet in the bands. His dedication to what he did has always been an example to me as was the kindness and caring he extended to his students. He was one of the best band directors I have ever encountered. It was a privilege to be in his band. "

Paris Brown wrote on Sep 13, 2018:

"William was great teacher of mine st Arlington High School, I am still playing to this day.Thanks Bill"

Doug Strommen wrote on Sep 13, 2018:

"His influence on my life stretches generations. I began playing oboe at Arlington, and I took private lessons from him. Once I was able to join A band, I bought an alto sax to play in marching band with my paper route monies. I am proud to have helped my children also appreciate playing instruments. That sax was given to my daughter to play in grade school. She occasionally plays professionally in Atlanta. RIP Mr Salzmann, thank you for all you taught me."

Rev. Floyd Knight Jr., M.Div. wrote on Sep 13, 2018:

"He was a positive influence in my life. If not for Mr. Saltzman, I would have drowned in a sea of despair. The music he taught me to play and love enabled me to learn self-discipline and helped me to listen to myself and others empathetically. He gave me a vehicle to learn how to express my feelings in positive ways. I thank God for him and how he chose to speak to my father several times when I was a student at IPS 83 and at Arlington. He convinced my father to allow me to purchase a professional saxophone (my father then agreed providing I paid for it myself although he did cosigned the loan), again to get private lessons the year before my college audition (again I had to pay for this myself, but he gave me permission), and to try out for and to go to All-City Band (which I had to take the public bus until I had my own car). With each paternal obstacle Mr. Saltzman intervened on my behalf. He wouldn't let me quit music. He was a good man and teacher."

Paul Irvin wrote on Sep 12, 2018:

"Dear Lois and family, my sincerest condolences for your loss. Mr. Salzmann was my music and band teacher from elementary school at IPS #83 through Arlington HS. He was a caring and inspirational teacher, leader, mentor and friend. He touched so many lives with his gift of music. Thank you for you love, spirit and inspirational talent for teaching. Rest In Peace."

Tami Schaafsma wrote on Sep 12, 2018:

"Mr. Salzman was my band director at Arlington and I am saddened to hear of him passing. He was a wonderful teacher and man. Your family is in my prayers. Tami Bair Schaafsma (86)"

Jacque (Lepscum) Armstrong wrote on Sep 12, 2018:

"Lois and family, I'm so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. My deepest sympathies to all of you. Unfortunately I will not be able to make it to any of the services, but will keep you in my prayers. Love and hugs"

Beth Curran wrote on Sep 12, 2018:

"Dear Lois and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Bill was so talented and witty. My prayers are with you."

John W. Kendrick wrote on Sep 12, 2018:

"Dear Lois and family, it is with sadness and condolences to you and family on the loss of a very special man and friend. Bill and I go back many years as musical colleagues in the Philharmonic and ISB and in Bob Phillips ensembles. I believe the very first time I met Bill was in the old downtown transportation building (no longer there) in an upstairs room where Bob Phillips invited us to play in a woodwind quintet, playing from his library of music for quintet he had collected. This was in 1951 when I was a senior at Tech H.S. I played horn from then on over the years with him and it was such a joy to be able to make music together. My God's presence be very real to you at this time and strength for the future."

Shonarie wrote on Sep 11, 2018:

"My condolences to family and fellow band geeks..... Mr Salzman held a special place in my heart."

Kent Lemons wrote on Sep 11, 2018:

"I enjoyed being in Band with Mr. Salzmann as our teacher at School #1 and Arlington High School."