John Williams

Jack Williams, age 81, died Sunday, April 24, 2022, in Dublin, Ohio.

Jack spent his youth in Urbana, Illinois as a baseball catcher, basketball player, and track athlete, developing many lasting friendships through these early years.  Despite being considered slow as a high school freshman, he was required to run track in order to try out for other sports like basketball.  He was therefore especially proud of setting the Shelbyville Open records of 51.2 seconds in the 440 yard dash and 3:36.5 in the mile relay in 1959, as well as qualifying for the Illinois state track competitions.

Jack graduated with a BSEE from the University of Illinois and later earned an MBA.  He had boxes full of awards from Toastmasters, where he continuously worked to improve his public speaking and leadership skills.  In his career, he specialized in the power utilities industry, gaining expertise with the Clinton nuclear power plant in Illinois as well as with the Fort St. Vrain plant in Colorado.  Jack was often called upon to represent these utilities in front of Congress or the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.  With a strong work ethic, he was always dedicated to his work and proud of his accomplishments.  He was an entrepreneur and a dreamer, always captivated by those who beat the odds and made a difference in the world.  His favorite song was “They All Laughed,” which captures the achievements of those who succeeded despite opposition from others.

As a young father, he is remembered for his dedication and support of his kids.  Despite a lack of knowledge of hockey, Jack embraced the sport and became the biggest fan and an assistant coach.  Despite a heavy workload with his job, he spent many years traveling on weekends throughout Central Illinois to attend games.

Outside of work, he had a love of hiking, skiing, sailing, and dancing.  As he aged, he strived to return to his youthful days and fully enjoy those activities again.  These efforts included extensive research, dietary changes, and lots of reading.  He often commented about his desire to return to the ski slopes.

 In his later years, he appreciated spending time with friends and family while learning about their journeys through life.

He is survived by brothers Jerome “Skip” and Keith (Sheryl); sons Jerry (Felice) and Brian (Paula); daughter Becky; and grandchildren Jared, Kirk, Kade, and Nash.

He is preceded in death by his parents Jerome and Ethel and by his brother Bruce (Felicity). 

Arrangements handled by Tidd Family Funeral Home, Hilliard, Ohio.