Robert B. Williamson

Robert Williamson, 86, of Midland died Thursday March 29, 2012, at MidMichigan Medical Center in Midland. Bob was born in Friendly, WV on July 24, 1926. He was the first son of the late Eugene E. and Neva Bowles Williamson. When he was twelve, the family moved to Route 1, Shepherd, MI. Bob graduated from Shepherd High School and enlisted in the United States Navy at age 17. He served for two years and was honorably discharged in December, 1946. Bob started his 31 year career at the Dow Chemical Company in the Engineering Department and held several positions before his retirement in 1982. His last position was as manager of Capital Construction Projects. In 1947 he married his high school sweetheart Joyce Arndt and they had 64 wonderful years together.


Bob is survived by his wife; three daughters, Pamela (Don) Jakes of Roseville, MN; Peggy (Tom) Steeh of Waterford, MI, and Penny Wheelock of Kingsley, MI.; grandchildren Elizabeth Jakes, Benjamin Jakes, Haley Steeh, Andrew Steeh, Rebecca Barker, Kiel Steger, and Robert Steger; five great grandchildren, Christian Barker, Noah Scribner, Kielee Steger, Kaiden Steger, and Keagan Steger; sisters, Laura Welch and Letitia Scribner; brothers, Frederick (Olga) Williamson, Wallace (Sylvia) Williamson, and Richard (Debra) Williamson; and one brother-in-law Don (Joyce) Arndt; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.


In accordance with Bob's wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will be held Tuesday, April 3, 2012, 11:00AM at the United Church of Christ, 4100 Chestnut Hill Drive in Midland with Rev. Roger Pancost officiating. Full military honors will be provided by the United States Navy and the Midland Area Veterans. Family will receive friends at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider the United Church of Christ or the Pardee Cancer Foundation of Midland. Arrangements are under the care of Wilson MILLER Funeral Home. Personal messages of condolence may be offered to the family at www.wilson-miller.com