James N. Williams

James N. Williams, 72, of Algonac, Michigan, passed away Saturday, November 22, 2014, after a lengthy illness, with his beloved wife, Kathryn, at his side, and held closely in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and family and friends. Born in Detroit the only child of Newton and Virginia (Pesonen) Williams, Jim was a Master plumber in the family business, Williams and Sons, and a 50-year member in the Plumbing and Pipefitting Local 98. In addition to his forever love for his family, Jim supported the philanthropic efforts of the Masonic rites and the Shriners. He was past Master of Lodge Laurel of Acacia East Gate 477 in Harper Woods as well as Lodge S. Ward 62 in Marine City. Jim, a 32nd degree master mason, was an active member in the Shriner medical unit and a proud member of the Shrine Motorcycle Club, riding his Harley while promoting its mission of providing free, specialized medical care to children through the Shriners' Hospitals of America. Outside of the parades and other club activities, Jim loved opening up his Hog or a muscle car on trips north. Jim had a lifetime love of "the need for speed," Detroit sports, a good game of cards, and being on or in the water. Living on the St. Clair River, he was known to wet a line and watch the freighters make their way through the shipping channels. Preceded in death by his parents, Jim is survived by his wife of 48 years, Kathryn, son James (Kate Nowak) of St. Clair Shores, son Paul (Jennifer) and their children, MacKenzie and Marek of Macomb Township, daughter Kristin Rasnick (Michael) and their sons, Michael, Noah, and Preston, of Kimball Township. and daughter Elizabeth Szmrecsanyi (Thomas) of Grosse Pointe Park. Beth and Tom's German shepherd, Ellie, could often be found at Jim's side. Jim was also preceded in death by his dear cousin Kim Vanderhoff and is survived by dear cousins Karen Powell (Richard), Karol Vanderhoff, and Kay Beltz (Donald), their daughter Beth, and sister-in-law, Anne Dupuis (Michael). Jim's family meant everything to him, and he was greatly loved by many in return. Jim had a sparkle in his eyes and an impish smile that will be remembered through his kids, all who share in that same spirit. A memorial service will take place in the Spring. Memorials appreciated in Jim's name to the Shriners' Hospitals for Children.