Michael "Joe" Williamson

Michael "Joe" Williamson, 72, of rural Columbia City, died at 5:35 p.m. Monday, October 6, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, where he was a patient for the past week. Born on June 19, 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was a son of James T. and Virtle Elizabeth (McKnight) Williamson. Growing up in Coesse, he completed Coesse Elementary School and then graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1972, where he was an outstanding basketball player and cross-country runner. After graduating, he went to work for Zollner Piston in Fort Wayne, where he worked until 2001. On May 19, 1979, Joe married Kathy G. Simmons. They made their home in Coesse until Joe completed his custom-built home in Etna-Troy Twp. in 1988. He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Kathy; a sister, Janice (George) Webster, and a brother, Curt (Lori) Williamson, both of Columbia City; and many nieces and nephews. Additionally, he was preceded in death by his brothers, James, Glenn, and Dennis Williamson. The funeral service is 3 p.m. Sunday (Oct 12th) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial is at the Stough Cemetery. Visitation is from 12 noon until the service Sunday at the funeral home. Memorials are to final expenses c/o Smith & Sons Funeral Home.