ALBANY-Robert Anthony Williams, 94 , passed away peacefully on November 26, 2016 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 16, 1922 to William and Charlotte (Bader) Williams at Albany, NY, the second of six brothers.
Bob graduated from Albany High School where he excelled as an athlete on the football and basketball teams. He served with distinction as a WWII US Navy Submarine Petty Officer 2c for seven war patrols receiving the Presidential Unit Citation and Bronze Star for extraordinary heroism in action in the South Pacific, Honshu, Japan and a second Bronze Star for meritorious combat service during the Philippine Liberation.
Upon completion of his naval service, Bob attended the University of Tampa and studied business at The College of Saint Rose Veterans' Program. This was followed by a lifelong career with Lone Star Corporation in the cement business where his projects included construction of the Adirondack Northway and Empire State Plaza. In his free time he enjoyed the Saratoga Racing season and was an avid Yankees and Giants fan.
In 1951, Bob met the true love of his life, Dottie Musley, at a picnic at Thatcher Park. When they married in February 1952, he found the perfect life companion. Bob and Dottie truly enjoyed each other's company, with continuous funny banter, to the delight of everyone around them. With Dottie's home economics background, she was able to create a beautiful home and cook the wonderful family dinners that Bob loved. In retirement, Bob and Dottie enjoyed summer trips to Maine and autumn drives to Vermont.
Known as Bob, Bobby and Blackie, he enjoyed the company of his lifelong friends, and a large, lively extended family. As an extraordinary husband, father and grandfather, Bob filled life with love, joy and wise humorous advice. He looked at the bright side of life and always had a warm welcome for anyone who entered his home. His cup was always half full, and whenever possible, so was his Heineken!
A service will be held on Friday, December 2, 2016 at precisely 2:00pm at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville NY. Guests are asked to arrive at 1:50pm.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Dorothy Williams; his daughter Deborah (Peter Sawchuk) Williams, his son Robert S. Williams and his granddaughter Caylen (Eric Holtz) Sawchuk Holtz.
He is predeceased by his brothers Herbert, Stanley, Richard, Donald and Gerald.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Robert's name to the Robert A. Williams Patient Support Fund. Checks can be sent to: Home In Stead, Senior Care, 650 Franklin St., Schenectady, NY, 12305