Donald Roger Williams

Donald “Don” Roger Williams, age 90, of Topeka, KS, passed away with his family by his side on Friday, May 10, 2024, in Topeka.

He was born the son of Thomas and Ethel (Munch) Williams on April 27, 1934, in Irvington, New Jersey. After graduating from Roselle Park High School, Don entered and served in the United States Air Force. While stationed at Forbes Air Force Base, he met Cecilia Stattelman and they married on January 21, 1956, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Topeka. Together, they shared 68 years of marriage.

Don was employed for many years as a mechanic and maintenance supervisor for the State of New Jersey. He was an avid car enthusiast and enjoyed working on old cars. Don’s hobbies included helping at the church, being a cub scout leader and even started a boy scout unit for children with disabilities, and listening to big bands, especially Glenn Miller. He was known by friends as a skilled leather craftsman, hand making many wallets, belts, and purses. He was an active member of the American Legion Post# 400 where he volunteered for many years as well as at the VA Hospital. Although he was quiet in nature, Don was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He was proud to serve his country and was very patriotic. Spending time with his wife, Cecilia, and his family is what he enjoyed most.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Cecilia Williams; two daughters, Linda Doyle and her husband Jim, Mary Groeling; two sons, Donny Williams and his wife Susan, Tony Williams and his wife Lori. Other survivors include his nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas J. Williams and Ethel Williams; and his brother, Thomas Williams.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 227 SW Van Buren St., Topeka, KS 66603. Burial with military honors will follow after the service at Mt. Calvary Cemetery-Topeka.

Memorial contributions can be made in Don's memory to St. Joseph Catholic Church. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.