Richard Allen Williams, 84, of Columbia City, died peacefully in the company of family at 10:40 a.m. Wednesday, November 1, 2023.

Born on July 20, 1939, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, he was a son of the late Robert L. and Helen (Lutke) Williams. Growing up in Mattawan, Michigan, he attended Mattawan High School.

On November 1, 1956, he joined the U.S. Air Force. He was stationed at Roswell, NM, and later Pease Air Force Base in New Hampshire. He received an honorable discharge on October 30, 1960.

On November 23, 1957, he married Patricia Ann Jungerheld. After his discharge, the couple made their home in Kalamazoo. In 1967, they moved to Fort Wayne and, in 1997, to rural Columbia City.

Richard worked for General Electric, Fort Wayne, from 1968 until 1980, when he joined Essex, Columbia City as a machine maintenance supervisor. He retired in 1995.

He enjoyed golf and following the Detroit Lions football. As a native of Michigan, he was a University of Michigan Wolverines fan. Every June was the free fishing month in Michigan, and Richard was an eager participant. At home, he enjoyed assembling jigsaw puzzles.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Patricia; children, Dawn (Edward) Klaehn of Albion, Lucinda (Timothy) Brock, Deborah Bosselman, and Jodi Wright, all of Columbia City; nine grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by brothers Robert and David Williams.

A memorial service is at 5 p.m. Thursday (November 9th) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Visitation is from 2 p.m. until the service Thursday at the funeral home. Richard will be interred, at a later date, at the Fort Custer National Cemetery, Battle Creek, Michigan, with Military Honors.

Memorials in Richard's honor are to Sugar Grove Church of God, 5019 E. 500 S-57, Churubusco, IN  46723.