Kathleen M. Williams, 74, of Fremont, OH passed away on Feb. 12, 2021. She was born on Aug. 4, 1946, in Lackawanna, NY, the daughter of Leon E. and Irene H. (Smigielski) Dygula. In 1964, she graduated from the Griffith Institute in Springville, NY. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Master’s of Art Education both from Buffalo State University where she also played on the women’s basketball team. Kathy married Rodney E. Williams on June 28, 1969 and he survives.
Between her eclectic job resume, athletic endeavors, and time spent with family, Kathy was never one to sit still for long. While living in Western New York, she was an art teacher at Lackawanna City Schools, wrote a column for the Clarence Pennysaver, played shortstop for the Clarence softball team, and was an accomplished skier as well as a certified ski instructor. Rod and Kathy met at Bob-O-Link golf course and played many rounds at Elma Meadows Golf Course. With Rod as her caddie, Kathy won the Elma Meadows club championship while 8 months pregnant.
The Williams moved to Fremont, OH in 1986 where over time Kathy served in several teaching roles, as an art teacher at St. Joseph Central Catholic High School, a gym teacher at Washington Elementary and a photography teacher at Ross High School. She was a photographer for The News-Messenger. In addition to general news contributions, she especially enjoyed her weekly photo feature called the “Bright Spot,” which celebrated good happenings in the community. She was also a volunteer for Meals on Wheels in Toledo.
Kathy was a talented golfer, winning the club championship at Fremont Country Club a whopping 14 times. She loved traveling to play competitively in the Toledo Women’s District Golf Association for more than 25 years. Her humor often came out on the golf course where she treasured spending time with friends.
She was known for her sharp wit, and wasn’t afraid to suit up in costume for a laugh, dressing up as a nun, randomly visiting FCC as “an old lady,” or inventing characters like “Rotunda Bunsagger,” the Jazzercise instructor. She even created a life-sized golf cart riding partner named Delores Deafear.
Kathy was a dedicated parishioner of St. Joseph Catholic Church for more than 30 years and took great joy in singing in the choir for more than 15 years. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Rodney’s affectionate nickname for her was “Birdie,” an ode to her superior ability to give orders and supervise those around her. Kathy could light up a room with her energy. She loved Christmas-time. She was an exceptional wife, mother, friend, teacher and caregiver to all.
In addition to her husband of 51 years, Kathy is survived by daughters Rebecca (Chad) White of Golden, CO, and Sarah (Tim) Mayle of Findlay, OH; grandchildren CJ, Ben, Cameron and Rosalynn; and sisters Pauline Pavlica of Austin, TX, and Christine (Donald) Altmann of Colden, NY.
She is preceded in death by her parents.
Visitation: Friday, February 19, 2021 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Wonderly Horvath Hanes Funeral Home and Crematory, 425 E State St., Fremont, OH.
Mass of Christian Burial: Saturday, February 20, 2021, 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 709 Croghan St., Fremont, OH.
The use of face masks is required while indoors at all services. Social distancing will be observed throughout all services with wait times taking place outdoors. If you would prefer, you may express your condolences below or call the funeral home at 419-332-6409 to request that your name be signed in the guest book.
Memorials can be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church or the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation at www.alzinfo.org
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Maile and Bill Doyle
Sarah and Tim and family, we are so very sad for the loss of this lovely lady. We pray you feel the comfort of God’s mercy as you grieve her loss and celebrate her life. Blessings, Maile and Bill Doyle
Mark Gottron
Rod, Becky, and Sarah,
So sorry to hear of the passing of Kathy. A tremendous golfer and wonderful person! I really appreciated her golf, ski, and life tips (using a light bulb to heat your car engine in a Buffalo winter). My thoughts and prayers to the whole family in this difficult time!
Christine and Donald Altmann
Hello Family,
We have wonderful memories of all the time shared with all of you. Kathy taught me many things like euchre, where I was Rod’s wildly unpredictable partner for many years. She also taught me numerous life lessons like always be sure the snow is brushed off the head and tail lights on the car. Too many to mention, but all appreciated. She will always be in our hearts.
Jeffrey Norman
Rod So very sorry for your loss–Kathy was a real competitor on the course and I am sure she was through her life–We will be out of town for the showing-sorry about that=Take care–always Jeff-alias shorty
Jackie Lawniczak
Rod and Family, we were very sorry to hear about Kathy’s illness and death. I have a lot of memories of her as my talented older cousin. Her art work always impressed me. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Jackie and Phil
Brian and Denise Burns
Rod and family,
Sending sympathy for the loss of Kathy. She was a great golfer and always had a smile and she talked to everyone and always made people laugh. Thinking of you.
Roy and Marty Wilhelm
Sorry to hear about Kathy’s passing. She was a joy to know and a pleasure to work with. Her photos were a welcome addition to the newspaper and her lively personality was a welcome addition to the newsroom. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this time.
Pauline Pavlica
To my family,
My memories of Kathy are numerous and too many to mention. I was always proud of her especially during high school when she had the opening clarinet solo to Rhapsody in Blue. I can still see her standing in the spotlight. She practiced long and hard for that one! She will be greatly missed and loved forever. Pauline
Jo Daniels
Rod and family,
So sorry to hear of Kathy’s death. I feel blessed to have known her and she brought laughter to my golf game. It was a yearly tradition to play against her and Holly in a one out of two best ball in district. Her home made award to the winners were always a treasure. Will miss her smile and laughter.
Beth & Jon Williman
Rod & family,
We are saddened at the passing of your dear wife, mother and grandmother. Sweet women like her are sadly missed. We will be praying for all of you as you walk thru these coming days and weeks. May you seek God’s comfort and peace. With our condolences, love and prayers, Beth & Jon Williman
Alex Altmann
Family,
Kathy was an inspiring woman who had accomplished much and touched many. I have always loved hearing stories of Kathy from my mother and Pauline about their childhood antics. I will miss her humor and can still hear her laugh.
With Love,
Alex
Rosie Feeback
Kathy was such a hoot loved playing with her – (TWDGA)
Rosie Feeback
Desiree Subsara
Rod and Family,
So sorry for you loss may God keep you in his loving arms. We are praying for you.
Bill and Desiree Subsara
Paul Moore
Dear Rod and Family,
I will always treasure my memories of Kathy. From the age 1 to about 12, I spent my summers in Colden. ( lived in Fort Worth Texas, but my Mother was always so homesick for Colden) We often stayed at their home and with my Grandma Dygula. We rode around on the tractor, gathered eggs from the chicken coop, performed our annual summerstock in the barn, played in the ditch. I always admired Kathy. She was so smart, talented, and fun to be with. She excelled at anything she went for. I was honored to be in her wedding to Rod. I truly regret not visiting her before she passed. The funeral service was beautiful. I love you Kathleen Dygula Williams. Blessings to the family.
Sincerely,
Counsin Marsha