American country singer and songwriter Don Williams (1939-2017) posed at a venue in 1989. (Photo by Michael Putland/Getty Images)
Donald “Don” Williams
Donald “Don” Williams RUTLAND — Donald “Don” Williams, 85, of Mendon, Vermont, passed away on July 10, 2024. Born on November 28, 1938, in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, Don was well known for his straightforward, honest demeanor, always telling it like it is, yet with a big-hearted and kind spirit underneath. Don proudly served in the United States Army from 1959 to 1962 and then in the United States Army Reserves for 6 more years, where he embraced the discipline, rigor, and camaraderie of military life. His service was marked by a dedication and work ethic that he then carried into his civilian life.
Don always fondly told the story, after his honorary discharge, of his adventures of driving a 1950 Ford convertible across the country by himself as a young man, from San Diego back to his hometown of Williamsport, setting the tone for his many future adventures on the road. Following his military career, Don quickly discovered he did not wish to work for others and thus rapidly became a self-made man, notable in the local business community. He first owned Hotel Manner in Slate Run Pennsylvania and then went on to own Mountain Caaps in Mendon, Vermont, for 28 years before his retirement. His leadership and entrepreneurial spirit were always evident.
He was excellent at business because of his integrity and talent for self-discipline. Don was also passionate about his hobbies which included, fishing, hunting, and competitive skeet and trap shooting, in which he won many state, regional, and national awards during his lifetime. Most recently he took up golf, in which he rapidly became competent without ever taking a formal lesson. During the cold Vermont winters, Don spent many months in Tarpon Springs, Florida, where he happily spent time outdoors enjoying the warm air and sunshine. Don was a former member of Texas and Blockhouse in English Center, Pennsylvania.
Don was a lifetime member of the Elks and spent 39 years in Mount Moriah Lodge 96 of the Masons. Don is survived by the love of his life, his beloved wife of 63 years, Donna R. Williams, his dog Tootsie, and his cherished niece Susan Williams Lewonski. He was preceded in death by his brothers Charles O. (Chuck) and Raymond (Ray) and his beloved dogs Greta, April, and DeeDee. Don’s legacy of straightforward honesty coupled with his generous and caring spirit will be fondly remembered, and sorely missed, by all who knew him.
Calling hours will be held at Clifford Funeral Home on Thursday, July 25, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A funeral service will be on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Clifford Funeral Home and a reception will follow at the Elks Lodge in Rutland. In lieu of flowers, Donna requests donations be made to your local Humane Society as Don loved animals. Arrangements are under the direction of Clifford Funeral Home.
