Roger Williams
January 28, 2016
Roger Lee Williams, 79, passed away after a short illness on Thursday, January 28, 2016 at Unity Point Health Des Moines Methodist.
Roger Lee Williams, the son of Joseph H. and Ethel Williams was born December 28, 1936 in Chicago, Illinois. The family moved to New Richmond, Wisconsin to farm when he was a young child. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in New Richmond and graduated from New Richmond High School in 1954. After graduation, he attended the University of Wisconsin in Superior, Wisconsin.
He married Patricia R. Hink on June 20, 1964 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ida Grove, Iowa. They lived for eight years in Galva, Iowa before moving to Des Moines in 1972. Roger worked many years in sales, insurance and employment placement before starting his own employment agency in 1982.
Roger served in the Wisconsin and Iowa Army National Guard for eight years. He became a member of Christ the King Catholic Church in 1972, and was a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus.
Roger is survived by his wife, Patricia; children, Joseph H. (Paige) Williams, Julie M. Williams and James C. (Sara) Williams; grandchildren, Moira, Maeve and Mairen Williams, Evan and Alix Williams and Boden Williams; brother, H. Michael (Laurel) Williams; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Joseph J. and Patrick.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, February 4, 2016 at Christ the King Catholic Church, 5711 SW 9th Street followed by burial at Glendale Cemetery. The family will greet friends Wednesday, February 3rd from 5 to 7 p.m. with the Rosary recited at 7 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Joe
02/08/2016
Just wanted to say on behalf of the family - we greatly appreciated all the gifts, notes, visits, and well wishes from family and friends. Mom was blown away by the support she's received and is greatly humbled by the experience. Mom got married when she finished her Masters program so this is her first experience living on her own - adjusting will take her time. Thanks again - we hope to make the rounds to visit as many of you as possible in the near future.
Adamson Family
02/03/2016
Our sincere sympathies for the Williams family. May God the hearer of prayer bring peace and comfort during this difficult time.
We will miss our neighbor, Roger was always friendly and willing to have a conversation he will be greatly missed.
Joe, Julie and James your father was very proud of you all.
God Bless David, Kathy, Austin Chase and Connor Adamson
Larry Williams
02/01/2016
My wife Ginny and I just learned today of Roger's passing. Pat and family, you have our hearts, thoughts and prayers at this difficult time of Roger's passing. Roger and I grew up as cousins on two farms a mile apart near New Richmond, WI. We shared many great times together at all the family outings growing up. Roger and I worked together while I was in HS and college. He was a fun loving and wonderful guy who will be missed by everyone who knew him. As he joins my parents and his in heaven, may his soul and those of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen
Vernon family
02/01/2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Williams' family and all those close to Roger. As friends of James' we know that Roger's character transcended to his children and has touched many lives. Laura Vernon, Iain Elliott, Nancy & John Vernon
Josiah Zander
01/31/2016
i second everything my brother Matthew just said. Roger always treated me so well and went out of his way to make sure everyone was happy. I have very fond memories of him growing up and going back to Iowa all those times. He was the highlight of the trips most times as I remember my brother Matthew and I always saying how much fun and caring Uncle Roger was. Even though we were young at the time he always made me feel loved and special. May he go and be with the Lord for eternity, he will be greatly missed down here. The world lost a great one. Much love to you Uncle Roger, Aunt Pat, Joe, Julie, James and your families.
Matthew Zander
01/31/2016
My love is with you Aunt Pat, Joe, Julie, James and your families! Uncle Roger has always held a very special place in my heart, he treated me like gold my entire upbringing and I will cherish that for eternity! Roger was a loving and joyful man and he was able to spread that even when the situation was glum. Lord, take care of this angel and give him special wings, because to all of us he is very special. Love you Roger!
Trish & David Zander
01/31/2016
How sad we all are at the passing of our wonderful Uncle Roger. He was such an upright person, always making each member of our family feel special. His humor, thoughtful responses and genuine love for us will forever be revered. His home was always open to family, extended family and friends. His hospitality will be greatly missed as we always felt like we were at home. May he rest in eternal peace with his Lord and Savior. Our continued prayers are with Aunt Pat, Joe, Julie and James and their families. We love you all and will miss Roger deeply.
Leo Florick
01/29/2016
Please accept our heartfelt condolences during this very difficult time. Although you are sad at Roger's passing, rejoice in knowing God has already welcomed him into the eternal happiness of Heaven. Your father and grandfather will always be at your side. May God bless the Williams Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Leo, Janet, Davis & Jacqueline Florick