Michael Eugene Williams

Michael Eugene Williams finally gave Corticobasal Degeneration the middle finger and peaced out after an unbelievable 16-year fight. He was originally told he had only a few short years after his diagnosis, but anyone who knew Mike knows he wasn't going to let someone else set his timeline. When he was good and ready, he made the decision to pass on his terms, in his home, with his children and brother by his side. Born February 19, 1962 in Abilene, Texas, Mike was a proud jack of all trades. He was an Air Force veteran, IT wizard, devoted Patriots fan, Austin Healey lover, sailboat captain, small airplane enthusiast, husband, dad, brother, uncle, son, and collector of more technology and cars than one man could need. While serving in Saudi Arabia, Mike met the love of his life, Gillian (or "Gilly" as he called her), and charmed her with his wit, his nerdiness, and his passion for doing whatever he set his mind to. Together, they built a life that stretched from Ohio to New Hampshire to Utah, traveling all over the world, and raising their two kids along the way. After 37 years together, his soulmate Gilly passed last November, and he missed every single minute without her by his side - so much so, he joined her after less than a year. Before her own illness, Gill was his caregiver, and their love was the kind that endured the hard days. You could often find her sitting on his lap in his wheelchair "having a cuddle." It's comforting to imagine they're now together again, healthy in body and mind, after so many difficult years. Mike is survived by his children Aimee Sera and Jack Stephen Williams, Jack's partner Robin Leslie Noble, and, of course, his "favorite child" - his ex-son-in-law Casey Jay Eddy. His children would like to state for the record that Casey's title of "favorite" is one hundred percent warranted, as he spent years taking care of Mike, and was always kind and gentle, even on the worst days. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Steve and Julie Williams; his siblings-in-law Cathryn and Stephen Card; his father-in-law John Card; his loving stepmother Brigitte Williams; his niece and nephews; his grand-nephews; and close family friends who will miss his humor and carefully curated playlists. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gillian; his parents, Doris and Charlie Williams; and his mother-in-law, Evelyn Card. Mike's disease may have taken abilities from him, but it never touched his wisdom, his love for his wife, his sense of humor… or his stubborn streak. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at The Lodge and A+ Home Health, both of whom cared for Mike and Gill so well during their time there. They felt deeply loved by all of you. Mike believed funerals were for the living, so instead of anything too formal or sad, his kids will throw a party he'd approve of (with a great playlist, of course). A Celebration of Life is tentatively planned for October 18th, location to be determined. Aimee will post an update on Facebook with more details. Mike's absence in this world will be palpable. Today, raise a bottle of Sam Adams (or a shot of espresso) in his honor. "I'm glad I didn't know, the way it all would end, the way it all would go. Our lives are better left to chance. I could have missed the pain, but I'd have had to miss the dance." – The Dance, Garth Brooks