Jack “Jackie” Gale Williams, 72, of Nooksack, died Wednesday, April 11, 2018 in Bellingham of Alzheimer/dementia complications. He was born May 13, 1945 in Blaine to Robert and Lugene (Pritchett) Williams.
Jack attended and graduated from Nooksack Valley High School. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam conflict from 1964 to 1967, earning a Purple Heart. He returned home and married the love of his life, Marilyn Zylstra, on June 28, 1968. They had two children, Scott (Lynn) Williams and Jeannie Williams; and step-grandchildren Ashley, Brittney and Carson.
Jack was employed by the Whatcom County road department as a mower operator for 27 years. His passion was playing steel guitar and over the years he was in many bands. Family and friends were loved and treasured by Jackie, and his love for the great outdoors was evident. Camping and fishing brought him great joy and he always enjoyed working on his home.
Jack’s family extends many thanks and appreciation for the wonderful care given their father at Highgate Senior Living Care Center.
Jack was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Marilyn; his parents; brothers Ray, Bill and Bob; and sister Jody Betts.
He is survived by his children and step-grandchildren; brother Dale (Suzan) Williams; sister Wanda Crumpacker; sisters-in-law Darlene Zylstra and Ann (Ron) Alexander; and brother-in-law Pete (Betty) Zylstra.
Visitation hours will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 20, in Gillies Funeral Home of Lynden. Family and friends are invited to a graveside service at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 21, in Nooksack Cemetery, and to a reception following in Valley Church (formerly Assembly of God), 904 Nooksack Ave., Everson. The family suggests memorials to Whatcom Hospice.
You are invited to share your memories and condolences in the online guestbook at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
