In Loving Memory of Wayne Grant Williams

Wayne Grant Williams

November 12, 1936 – August 01, 2023

 

On Tuesday, August 01, 2023, Wayne Grant Williams peacefully passed into Heaven, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Provo, Utah, Wayne was born to Jack and Olive Williams; he was the 3^rd of 6 children in his family. He led a long and fulfilling life, touching the hearts of many as a devoted Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa, and so much more.

Wayne’s adventurous spirit led him to find joy in hunting, fishing, horseback riding, skiing, and everything outdoors. Throughout his life, Wayne overcame numerous adversities, showing immense strength and resilience. At a young age, he faced the loss of his father, but found support and mentorship from his beloved Uncle Vern.

Wayne’s early adult years were spent as a dedicated Fisheries Biologist at Federal Fish Hatcheries, where he honed his passion for aquatic life and conservation. Wayne’s journey as a fishery biologist took him and his family to various places, creating cherished memories in Washington, Alaska, Oregon, California, South Dakota, Montana, and Utah.

Later, he pursued his entrepreneurial spirit, obtaining his General Contractors License while living in Vernal, UT. He established his own successful business as a contractor, specializing in aluminum siding, rain gutter and roofing, and building and remodeling homes.

As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he lived by his faith and cherished his relationship with his Father in Heaven.

He had a great fondness for Pepsi and peanut butter, enjoying both with a heartwarming enthusiasm. His warm and non-judgmental nature made him the go-to person for help, especially during times of trouble. Wayne took immense pride in his family and delighted in sharing stories about his children with others.

Known for his love of John Wayne, he would often exclaim, “Slap some bacon on a biscuit and let’s go! We’re burnin’ daylight!!!” His infectious spirit and sense of humor endeared him to all who knew him.

Wayne was a man of simple pleasures. He loved hunting, particularly elk hunting in Colorado, and wished for his ashes to be spread at a place dear to his heart, affectionately known as “Wayne’s Rock.” His love for fishing was equally strong, and he passed on his passion and knowledge to the generations that followed.

Wayne was married to Bonnie (Bastian) for 31 years and together they raised 8 children. He experienced the loss of his youngest child, Jeremy, in 2019 and, recently, his second son, Matthew, in 2023. Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Marie (Stanford) Williams, and leaves behind 1 son and 5 daughters: Sherry Lewis, Ruth (Earl) Reams, Mike (Caradie) Williams, Karen Rea, Kathy (Troy) Cheney, and Julie (James) Garcia, along with 18 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He cherished his family deeply and imparted his love for the outdoors and the joys of life to all his children and grandchildren.

Wayne Grant Williams’ presence will be deeply missed by many, but his legacy lives on through the memories he created and the love he shared. As he rejoices in Heaven, celebrating with loved ones, especially his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we find comfort knowing that Wayne’s spirit lives on in our hearts forever.