Donald Williams

Donald Williams, born January 6, 1938, passed away on September 27, 2026, at the age of 88. A loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, caretaker, and friend, he will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who were fortunate to know him.

Donald pursued his education at the Missouri School of Mines and later served time in the Army. His working life reflected both discipline and aptitude—first on Wall Street, and later with Farmers Insurance, where he worked as manager in the auditing department. A true numbers man, he brought steadiness and careful judgment to the responsibilities entrusted to him.

A devoted history buff, Donald was especially drawn to WWII naval battles and Native American history. Over time, that interest grew into meaningful advocacy, as he sought to bring awareness to the plight of Native American people and offered support through donations to reservations. In many ways, his concern for others was simply part of who he was: he was always willing to help, and he provided shelter to so many—loved ones and animals alike.

Donald found joy in the simple and the spirited. He was a fervent card player, especially fond of cribbage and pinochle, and he loved baseball. He was a lifelong fan of professional wrestling, from the time he was young watching wrestler Haystacks Calhoun, to later going with his nephew, Joel, to see the matches in Kansas City at Kemper Arena or Memorial Hall. He enjoyed woodworking, and he had a well-known fondness for sweet treats—particularly chocolate chip or snickerdoodle cookies. His love of music ranged from Navajo music to classical favorites, especially Chopin and the baroque tradition. In both temperament and conviction, he preferred to be the captain of his ship.

In his final chapter, Donald bravely accepted transition on his own terms, with grace, acceptance, and without fear, remaining spirited until the end.

Donald was preceded in death by his grandparents, Emille Baptiste Villain; Fanny (Malueve) Villain; Louis Williams; and Caroline (Larson) Williams; his parents, Erik Oscar Williams and Annette Francis Williams; his wife, Janice Williams; his brother, Paul Williams; his daughter, Donna Groszek; his son-in-law, Joe Groszek; his son, John Herald Rees; and his granddaughter, Janice Elizabeth Rees.

He is survived by his brother, David Williams; his nephews, Bruce Williams, Brent Williams, and Joel Monts de Oca; his niece, Alicia Ice (Leonard) and their children; his daughter-in-law, Deborah Rees; his grandson, Jonathan Rees (Crystal); his great-granddaughter, Adeline Rees; his granddaughter, Anna Lindquist (Zach); his nieces Renee Schuck, Erica Bottom, and Sarah Instrom; his nephews Chris and Justin Cline, and Anthony Cincotta; and his dear friends.