Daniel James Williams

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Daniel James Williams, a loving father, husband, brother, uncle, and son who left us all too soon. Danny peacefully departed this world at home in Portland, Oregon at the age of 53, after a long and hard-fought battle with diabetes and heart disease. As if with a wink and a nod to his love of horror films and the Twilight Zone, he said goodbye on Friday the 13th of October, 2023.

Born at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1970, Danny's life was marked by his deep curiosity, loving heart, and contagious sense of humor. His formative years were spent in Vancouver and Battle Ground, Washington, and Hot Springs, Arkansas. He called Portland home for most of his adult life.

In 1995, Danny met the love of his life, Roxanne Babcock. They welcomed their beloved son, Ethan, in 1996. Danny showed an unshakable devotion to his family, and cherished his roles as husband and father most. He loved to make Roxanne laugh, and delighted in teaching Ethan the ways of the world.

Danny was truly gifted in so many ways, but his musical prowess shone most brightly. He loved the guitar, but would compose melodies on any instrument that crossed his path. He also enjoyed literary criticism; wrote fiction, poetry, and satire; and most recently produced a dramatic radio play, writing the story and composing the score. He expertly dabbled in chess and computer programming, loved performing magic tricks, and mastered the art of crochet. Outside his creative pursuits, Danny enjoyed gaming and spending time outdoors, hiking and camping with Roxanne and Ethan.

His family will remember Danny as a compassionate and empathetic listener who always offered solace with just the right words. He regaled his loved ones with stories and laughter, and left an indelible mark on their hearts.

Danny is survived by his wife Roxanne Babcock; son Ethan Williams; mother Kathryn Ackerman (née Lyons); father Rod Williams; sisters Heather Lyons and Elizabeth Benjamin; nephew Dylan Medford; nieces Madeleine Wegan and Nora Benjamin; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. In the tapestry of life, Danny's thread was woven with brilliance, warmth, and endless creativity. May his spirit continue to inspire us and his laughter ring in our ears as we carry his memory forward.

There will be a celebration of life at Zeller Chapel of the Roses at 2107 NE Broadway St. in Portland, Oregon at 1pm on Saturday, November 4th with a reception to follow.