Bruce E. Williams Sr. 1932-2021

Bruce was born Feb. 24, 1932, in Girard to Edward J. Williams and Jeanette Williams Deets, who both preceded him in death.

Bruce was a 1951 graduate of Girard High School and a Korean War Navy veteran. Bruce served in the Navy from 1952 to 1956 aboard the USS Manchester (CL83). He left the Navy as a Petty Officer 3rd class Gunner’s Mate.

On July 2, 1955, Bruce married Margaret Ann Girts Williams, who preceded him in death on April 27, 2006, after 50 years. Bruce retired from the GM Assembly Plant in Lordstown in 1992, where he was a spot welder in the body shop. He was very active in the Lordstown GM Retirees and United Autoworkers Local 1112.

Bruce was a former member of the Girard United Methodist Church, where he was head usher, served on numerous committees, and went on many mission trips for Habitat for Humanity. He was a member of William Farr Masonic Lodge 672, Elks, VFW, Eagles, Moose, American Legion.

He is survived by his wife, Eva M. Kreager Williams of Lima, whom he married March 21, 2009; his daughter, Brenda (Jim) Soja of Strongsville; son, Bruce E. (Kevin) Williams, Jr. of Bradenton, Fla.; stepson, Pete (Joan) DeRose of Lima; and two grandchildren, Zachary and Mitchell Soja of Strongsville.

Bruce was an avid football fan and loved The Ohio State University Buckeyes and Cleveland Browns. One of his greatest accomplishments was placing a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington, D.C.

Following Bruce’s wishes there will be a graveside and burial of cremated remains held at a later date at Girard City Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Putnam County Homecare and Hospice.

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