Donald Eugene Williams (February 9, 1933 - October 13, 2026) | Obituaries – Lake of the Ozarks

Donald Eugene Williams Obituary

Donald Eugene Williams, 93, of St. Louis, MO, formerly of Lake Ozark, MO, passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Bethesda Southgate’s long-term care facility in St. Louis, MO.

Donald was born on February 9, 1933, in Newton, IA, the son of Russell and Vera (Messick) Williams, who preceded him in death. He was a 1951 graduate of Hampton Community High School in Hampton, IA. After high school, he joined the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where he served four years as an electrician, earning the rank of Corporal. Don was united in marriage to Leona (Leedom) Williams on September 21, 1952, in Hampton, IA, and celebrated nearly 50 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on May 23, 2001.

After being honorably discharged, Don devoted more than 40 years of his career to Maytag Company in Hampton, Iowa, where he worked as a tool and die maker before retiring in 1993. Throughout his life, he was known for his hardworking nature, mechanical skills, and love of adventure.

One of Don’s greatest passions was flying. A private pilot and flight instructor, he enjoyed spending time in the air and sharing his knowledge of aviation with others. His mechanical abilities and determination were especially evident when he took to the skies in an airplane he built with his own hands — a remarkable accomplishment that reflected both his ingenuity and his love of flying.

Fishing was another favorite pastime. Don often flew to Canada to enjoy fishing trips, combining two of his greatest interests: aviation and the outdoors. He also enjoyed hunting and appreciated the time spent outdoors pursuing the activities he loved.

After retiring in 1993, Don and Leona moved to the Lake of the Ozarks, where he enjoyed a well-earned retirement surrounded by the beauty and peacefulness of the lake. Whether flying, fishing, or simply enjoying life by the water, he made the most of his time doing the things that brought him happiness.

He was also a member of the Lions Club in Hampton, IA, and a faithful member of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Lake Ozark, MO.

Don will be remembered not only for his many accomplishments and adventurous spirit, but also as a wonderful father, grandfather, and family man whose love and memories will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Survivors include his son, John Williams (Terri); his sister, Ilene Brass; his sister-in-law, Jean Williams; and his three grandsons, Kyle Williams (Kelly), Scott Williams (Megan), and Josh Williams (Caroline), as well as many nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his two daughters, Lynda Williams and Karen Williams, and his brother, James Williams.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Lake Ozark, MO. The funeral service will follow at 12:30 p.m. at the church, with Pastor Ron Lehenbauer officiating. Burial with full military honors will take place at Lake Memorial Gardens in Osage Beach, MO.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306, or to Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1700 Bagnell Dam Blvd., Lake Ozark, MO 65049.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 514 State Hwy. 42, Osage Beach, MO 65065, (573) 348-3232.