Harold F. Williams
February 19, 1920 ~ September 6, 2012
Harold Fritz Williams passed away peacefully on September 6, 2012 with his loving wife of almost 70 years by his side. He was greeted in heaven by his parents, three sisters, two brothers, and son-in-law, Dennis Briguet. Harold will be deeply missed by his wife, Vivian; children, Dick (Heather) Williams, Janet Briguet (Mike Kolodjski), Alan (Cammy) Williams; 5 grandchildren, Todd (Jenny) Briguet, Julie (Troy) Weyrens, Matthew Briguet, Kari (David) Campbell, and Bryan (Karen) Williams; 14 great grandchildren, Matthew, Daniel, Faith, James, Shane, Kaylee, Nathan, Justin, Benjamin, Ashley, Madisyn, Sydney, Delaney, and Maxwell; many other family and friends. Harold Fritz Williams, the son of Herman and Mary (Johnson) Williams, was born on February 19, 1920 in Belview, Minnesota. He received his education in Litchfield, MN. On September 18, 1942, he married his hometown sweetheart, Vivian Anders, in Couer dAlene, Idaho. Harold spent most of his working years in the Twin Cities area as a construction superintendent for Sheehy Construction Company. Building ships in the early years, he went on to build schools, hospitals, churches, and bridges. Woodworking was a favorite hobby and he handcrafted many original pieces of furniture, including a beautiful grandfather clock for each of his five grandchildren. Harold retired to Hot Springs, Arkansas in 1985 where he made many new friends with his outgoing, friendly personality. He became an avid golfer and was proud of the 2 holes in one. Always generous with his time and talents, Harold volunteered many hours doing charity work with the Kiwanis Club, delivering Meals on Wheels, and being involved in his church community. Harold returned to Minnesota in 2005 and spent the remaining years of his life in Chisago City surrounded by many new friends. He set an example for all of us on how to grow old with dignity and good humor. A Memorial Service was held at 2 PM Sunday September 16th at The Parmly Chapel, 28210 Old Towne Road, Chisago City, with a gathering beginning at 1 PM until time of service. Memorials preferred.
Oh my goodness what a treat it has to work where Vivian and Harold have lived the past serval years. Harold’s humor right there with every encounter. The two have always been right in the action, playing games, leading activities, ALWAYS ready and arriving in costume at any invitation. Very Sweet and fun people that have blessed my life in the time that I have known them. Praying God’s comfort and best over Vivian and the entire family as they go through this time. Harold was surely created leaning heavily on the joyfilled image of God.
Cathy Carlisle: We at Carlisle Store always looked forward to Harold coming into our store, every day was a new story and lots of laughter. Harold and his family came to be part of our family too.
Harold was always one of my favorite uncles. I always looked forward to his charming ways and his big hugs.
He will be a lovely addition to Heaven. Nancy Anders Callender
My brother Duane stated that Uncle Harold was like a second father, that is not an exaggeration. Harold was a carpenter all of his life and woodworker. Duane and I both worked for Harold at times building bridges. I, too, was a carpenter most of my adult life. A few years ago Harold asked me if I was still working as a carpenter, I said “yes, I work with apprentices much of the time and one day one told me that he thought that I expected too much from him”, I said “if you think that I expect too much, you should have worked for my uncle”. I related that story to Harold, his reply was simple “I had a bridge to build”. As far as I know, those bridges still stand and in use every day. Harold, you will be missed by all and Thank You for all that you were to me. Grateful nephew, Galen
Just like the rest of our family, I loved our summer trek to Minnesota to see the family. Papa would frequently stoke up the grill and Nana would provide a never ending supply of homemade donuts and buster bars. Papa’s skill as a woodworker is well known as evidence by the beautiful clocks he made for each of his grandchildren. A lesser known talent presented itself years ago when we lived in Mexico City. I was involved in supplying gifts for the children in a large orphanage for Three Kings Day.Nana and Papa were coming to visit and I was sure that Nana would be happy to lend a helping hand.m they stepped off the plane and to my dismay, Nana had her arm in a cast and sling and my hopes for assistance faded. Not to worry! Papa took up the cause and spent hours sewing yarn “hair” on over 100 dolls! It is just one of the memories of Papa that brings a smile to my heart.
Love you Papa,
Heather
There is no question that the memories shared by Kari are among the fondest of my childhood. Though we were always seperated by distance, “Papa” was always close in our hearts and in our thoughts. His dry sense of humor is a characteristics which I think of most. When I was first married, I would love to watch as Karen tried to figure out if what he was telling her was serious or if he was joking around…(as everyone knows, it was always the latter). She quickly caught on and ever since has shared the the same deep sense of affection we all have. We love you Papa and you will be greatly missed!
Love, Bryan, Karen and Family
I remember so many wonderful summers spent at Papas lake house. What fun times with Nana and Papa , cousins and aunts and uncles. I remember mornings waking up to warm sugar donuts , sitting on the deck and watching the squirrels, Papa taking us fishing and for cruises around the lake. I remember running for our lives to make it to the water as the crazy little dog from next door would chase us and try to bite our ankles!! More recently I remember fun and more quiet times playing chicken foot with Nana and U PAPA ( affectionately named by my son Daniel). I think of you fondly every time I look at the amazing clock (a one of a kind living creation) that you made fore me! UPAPA you were loved so much and will be missed but I find comfort in the assurance that I will see you again someday in Paradise! Love, Kari
I am a newcomer to the Williams’ clan and did not have the opportunity to know Harold as I would have liked. But, I will always remember how both Harold and Vivian welcomed me into the family with open arms and open hearts; as if they had always known me. I see parts of Harold in all of his children. He was a good man and will be missed.
Harold was like a second father to me, providing guidance and support during my early 20’s…what a nice,nice person and a great sense of humor…I’ll always remember what he did for me. Nephew, Duane