Dallace Williams

May 21, 1927-May 22, 2012

Dallace Zane Williams, 85, was born in Tonkawa, OK to Dan Williams and Dorothy (Wilson) Williams. He departed his earthly life on May 22, 2012 at the home of his son Douglas and daughter-in-law Barbara Williams in Merced. He was beautifully cared for from Feb. 2012 until his death due to complications of MSA (Multiple System Atrophy) Shy-Drager Syndrome.

Dallace was preceded in death by his first wife of 43 years and mother of his children, Wanda M. Williams; his parents; sister, Margie Journey; and great-grandson, Jacob Stead.

He is survived by his son, Douglas (Barb) Williams of Merced; daughters, Diane (Steve) Ratzlaff of Atwater, Deborah Bush of Winton, and foster daughter Veronica Rodriguez of Merced; his wife, Laura Strange-Williams and her family of Clovis; grandchildren, Jennifer Willmon, Stacey and Steven Williams, Niklas and Megan Ratzlaff, Jason Day, Rebecca Heckman, Kelly Brown, Katie Bush, Jamie Conner, and Todd Bush; 13 great-grandchildren; 1 great great-grandson; and his siblings and their spouses, Doris Whitted, Alice (Loydd) Prothro, Richard (Lola) Williams, and Peggy Mattox.

Dallace was raised in the Planada/Merced area. He attended Le Grand High until his sophomore year, where he played football and made lasting friendships. As an adult he made his living as a tile-setter and retired as the owner/operator of Emmert Tile Co. His interests included working with his hands to build some pretty interesting items: a ski boat, houses, cabinets, numerous street rods, and an airplane that he taught himself to fly. He played the piano and enjoyed dancing with Laura. A devoted family man and a good friend to many, he loved "get-togethers" that included good food and good company. An avid race fan, he drove the #93 car at the local Merced track in the early 1950's.

Thank you to Hinds Hospice for their unwavering support to our family. Thank you Nancy, Elena, and especially Christy, who so lovingly helped with his personal needs.

The family wishes donations be made in memory of Dallace Williams to Hinds Hospice of Merced, 410 W. Main St., Suite A, Merced, CA 95340.

Visitation will be on Thursday, May 31, 2012 from 4:00pm-8:00pm and services will be on Monday, June 4, 2012 at 2:00pm at Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, 1490 B St., Merced, CA. with burial to follow at Merced District Cemetery. A reception will follow at Stratford Evans Reception Hall.

Arrangements are under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home.