John 'Johnny' Heidler Williams, 84
John “Johnny” Heidler Williams, 84, passed away with “peace and grace” on Christmas morning 2016 with Bonnie, his life partner of 23 years by his side.
John was born in Washoe, Montana, to John and Rose Williams in 1932.
He worked at Jermel Tire.
He married Patricia Meyer.
John enlisted at 18 years old in the U.S. Army. He served from 1950 to 1953 in combat in Korea.
John returned home to start a family while truck driving and getting his CPA license from Montana State University. He was hired by the IRS where his job took him to Miles City, Billings, Missoula and finally Kalispell where he retired at 55.
He picked up flying for a hobby, landing in his favorite place and the home of his retired years, Ferndale, Montana. He babied a dream 182 Cessna, owning it for 37 years. He made far reaching trips to Alaska, Oshkosh, Las Vegas, Reno and Hawaii with his sons and many more local trips to all the towns of his youth in Montana.
John and Bonnie were motor-home snowbirds and enjoyed traveling and visiting many of the national parks of the west and east as far as Florida. During the summers, they could be seen riding John’s motorcycle through Glacier Park and picnicking in John’s favorite spot looking at Bird Woman Falls. He loved hiking, fishing, swimming in Flathead Lake, biking, Grizzlies Football, the Denver Broncos, going to rodeos especially watching the bull riding and walking through the displays at the fair. John enjoyed being involved with local fundraisers and was a longtime member of Bethany Lutheran Church.
John was preceded in death by his parents, siblings and his grandson Kyle. He is survived by his loving partner Bonnie Hoffman; his four sons, Dirk, John Wade (Jackie), Darren and Garth; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A memorial service with full military honors will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 8559 MT Highway 35, in Bigfork, with Pastor Christopher Miller officiating. A reception will follow the service at the church. Interment will be at Bethany Lutheran Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in John’s name to Bethany Lutheran Church, PO Box 398, Bigfork, MT 59911
Darlington Cremation and Burial Service is caring for John’s family. You are invited to go to www.darlingtonfunerals.com to view John’s Tribute wall, offer condolences and share memories.