Ralph D. “Bud” Williams, 92 of Batavia, died August 5, 2011 at the Genesee County Nursing Home. Born September 28, 1918 in Batavia, NY, to the late Earl S. (Ellen M. Downey) Williams. Mr. Williams was a WWII Army Veteran serving with the Signal Corp, member of the American Legion and Life Member of the VFW. Bud worked for many years as a printer at the Democrat & Chronicle and the Batavia Daily News. He was a member of Resurrection Parish (St. Mary’s Church), Sertoma Club serving as Secretary and Vice President at one time, active member of the Republican Committee, Adirondack Mountain 46-R Club, and the Holland Purchase Historical Society. Bud was an amateur Ham Radio operator, loved wood carving, avid reader and writer that was known for his Letters to the Editor. He loved physical fitness winning 22 medals in all, 10 of them being gold at the Empire State Games and he was recognized for having swam 3,000 miles in the YMCA pool. He is preceded in death by his wife Jane F. (Johnston) Williams and brother Charles S. Williams.
He is survived by three daughters Susan Williams of Batavia; Kathy (Bob) Stefani of Batavia; Patricia (Charles) Ziegler of Attica; 12 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren along with many nieces and nephews.
Friends may call on Sunday August 7, 2011 from 1 to 5 PM at the Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc., 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York. A 9:30 AM Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday August 8, 2011 at Resurrection Parish-St. Mary’s Church 18 Ellicott St. Batavia. Interment at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.
The family suggests memorials be made to a YMCA Camp Hough . For more information or to sign the online guest registry please go to www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com or call 343-8260. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020.
