Donald Williams

Donald Duane Williams was born on October 15, 1946, in Tyler, Minnesota, to Carrol and Gloria (Johnson) Williams. Don Williams passed away peacefully in his sleep on 6/2/2026.

Don went to Highschool in Marshall MN and continued his education at SDSU followed by the U of M before entering the Navy. That same year on Jan 2nd, 1968, he married his wife Cookie Williams (Dilly) in Memphis Tennessee. Through this time Cookie took care of their two children Jeff and Rich.

During his 4 years in the Navy, as a member of Crew Ten (The Blue Dragons) he served as a Julie operator in a P-3 Orion. He received many honorary metals throughout his time in the service during the Vietnam War.

After the service he became a Park Manager at Garvin Park in Lion County. Following his time as a park manager he worked for a Feed Mill called Ralco. Later he started working for Burmeister selling farmland insurance and eventually got an opportunity to sell insurance in Fergus Falls MN. A couple of years later him and Bob Barker were partners, and he later partnered with Brian Welle. Finally, he ended up buying Midwest Insurance Company in Fergus Falls and did that until he retired in 2018.

Don was a member of the local Ashby American Legion for 47 years, was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Ashby MN, and served on the school board for two terms. He participated in many local clubs/associations such as Pelican Lake Association and Coots Unlimited. Outside of work he enjoyed fishing, hunting, trapping, and spent many years of his life woodworking in his shop. Some other joys in his life were taking care of his lawn and spending time with his two grandchildren.

Don Williams is survived by his loving wife Cookie Williams and two sons Jeffery and Richard Williams and his wife (Lisa Williams). Followed by his pride and joy his two grandchildren, Mckenna and Sienna Williams. Along with brother Danny Williams and wife (Sharon Williams), sister-in-law Kris Williams and nieces and nephew.

He was preceded in death by father, mother, older brother, and many of his aunts and uncles.

Don's memorial service is planned for 11 a.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church of Ashby.  There will be a visitation one hour prior.  Burial will take place at Pelican Lake Cemetery in Ashby after the service.