Dick Williams

Dick Williams - age 82 of Lathrop, MO passed away Sunday afternoon April 16, 2023, at Liberty Hospital in Liberty, Missouri. 
Dick was born on September 6, 1940 in Minden, NE.  He was the son of Howard and Bessie (Tollefsen) Williams. He grew up in Kearney, NE. Dick married Joanne Leirmoe on May 2nd, 1987, in Lakeside, CA.  He served in the United States Navy for over 21 years and travelled the pacific. After retiring from the Navy as a Chief Petty Officer, he made his home in San Diego, CA where he owned and operated Dick's Welding Service for 31 years.  Dick and Joanne relocated to Lathrop in 2005 to be closer to family.  He enjoyed John Deere tractors, Nebraska football and classic cars.  He was up for anything, free spirited and "Mischief" was his middle name.  Dick was young at heart and quite a character.  He would do anything for anyone.  Dick would often say, "You gotta have fun".  Dick will be dearly missed by his family and friends. 

Dick was preceded in death by his parents and birth mother, Rozella Erwin and son, Robert Williams. He is survived by his wife Joanne Williams of the home;  children, Steve Williams (Leslie) of El Cajon, CA, Teresa Golden (Johnny) of Chula Vista, CA, Michelle Dopp of Lemon Grove, CA, Kristi Kratzer of Liberty, MO, David Leirmoe (Danielle) of Ramona, CA, and Robert Leirmoe (Krista) of La Mesa, CA; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings, Marilyn Schnuerle of Kearney, NE, Charles Snyder (Mary) of Topeka, KS and Peggy Bates of Kansas City, MO; other extended family members also survive. 
 
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Kansas City Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America or the Multiple Sclerosis Society in care of the funeral home. Memorial services are pending at this time.  Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Lathrop (816) 740-4658. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com 

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