Robert Thomas Williams

May 22, 1917 - Sep 24, 2012

Robert Thomas Williams, aged 95,  of Grand Rapids passed away Monday September 24, 2012.

He was predeceased by his loving wife Jane and son-in-law Bill Bentley.

Bob is survived by his children Jeanne Bentley, Tom (Betty) Williams, James (Sue) Williams; grandchildren John Bentley, Matt (Cristi) Bentley, Eric (Ravell) Williams, Katherine (Jason) Presley, Amanda Williams, Elizabeth Williams, John Williams; and six great grandchildren.

Bob was born and raised in South Bend, Indiana. He was drafted into the US Army on April 9, 1941 serving in Europe until WWII ended in the 11th Armored Division part of Patton's Third Army. Robert retired from the Michigan National Guard as a Brigadier General after 31 years of service.

He founded, owned and operated Williams Distributing Company for over 25 years. Bob was a longtime member of the Golden Kiwanis of Grand Rapids and St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. He enjoyed officiating local high school and college football and basketball. He was also an avid bridge player, gardener and fisherman.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 A.M. Friday, September 28, 2012 at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 2750 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 with Msgr. Ernie Schneider as celebrant. The family will greet relatives and friends Thursday at the funeral home from 4-7pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church or Golden Kiwanis of Grand Rapids, in memory of Bob.

Article from 26 Sep 2012 The Grand Rapids Press (Grand Rapids, MI)

Sources: Ancestry.com, Newspapers.com and FindAGrave.com

03/17/2026 EJS

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/177586860/robert-thomas-williams