Donald James Williams - 87

11/22/1929 - 5/4/2017

Chicago

Donald James Williams, 87, peacefully left his beloved hometown of Chicago, once and for all, on May 4, 2017. He was preceded in death by his life long dance partner and beloved wife, Dolores Rose Marini. Don was born on the Eastside of Chicago, and was a long time resident of South Holland, IL. He first served as a US Marine and then as an Airborne Ranger in the US Army 101st Airborne. He was a proud member of the Ironworkers Local No. 1. He was most proud of his role as father to Lisa Ceko, Cara Williams de Berardine and Donald Sean Williams until he met his 6 hooligan grandchildren-Peter, Alexander, Nicholas, Maximilla, Ella and Joseph. He entertained all he knew with stories of the antics of his life and provided the illustrations as well. He was the patriarch to his many adored nieces and nephews that he kept close until the last moments of his life. He signed his last letter “It’s been one helluva ride and I wouldn’t have missed it for the world!” He left this world much better than he found it. The family requests that you forgo donations and be kind to your neighbor. Please wish Big Don “Godspeed!” For further service information please contact Panozzo Bros. Funeral Home, Chicago Heights 708-481-9230 or panozzobros.com