Gary Alan Williams, age 68, died Monday, June 5.
Many knew Gary for his orange hat and his exuberant sense of humor – he shared his joy of practical jokes and sometimes ill-timed humor with all whom he met. His 6’6″ stature earned him the title of “Bigfoot,” which he personified by wearing his Bigfoot costume on many occasions. He enjoyed antiquing, hunting for mushrooms, cribbage, golfing, and cooking for church and other large gatherings.
As an avid hunter and explorer, Gary was most at home in the woods. His friends fondly re-tell stories of his inability to sit still long enough to shoot a deer. If he managed to stay in one spot for too long, he could be found dozing off in the peacefulness of his surroundings.
Gary was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and achieved the rank of 4th Degree. He loved his faith and was a devoted member of St. Mary’s Visitation Catholic Parish.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois Williams. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Judy, and their children Elizabeth (Murry) Burgess, Jennifer (Craig) Shiels, and Amy (David) Seinen; five (soon to be six) grandchildren Nolan, Reed, Gretchen, Leon and Zeke; his dog, Spidey.
Visitation will be from 1 to 3 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 8, at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Home (Dorr Chapel), 4330 18th St., with prayers of the Rosary beginning at 6 p.m. A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 9, at St. Mary’s Visitation Catholic Parish, 2459 146th Ave. SW, Byron Center, with visitation from 10 to 0:45 a.m. prior to the service.
