Vernon Williams

Vernon “Pete” Williams died at his home in McCook on Sunday, March 7, 2004. He was 62 years old.

Pete was born on May 13, 1941, in Ordway, CO to George Edward and Thora “Neva” (Russell) Williams. He graduated from Manitou Springs CO High School in 1959.

He entered the US Marines in 1960 and served in the Vietnam War. He continued to serve his country until his honorable discharge in 1969.

On May 31, 1960 he married Dessa Wilson in Aurora, CO. To this union four children were born. They made their home in several locations where Pete managed retail stores for over 30 years. He was owner and operator of his own business, Shelby’s $14.99 Store in Dodge City, KS. for three years. His last employment was with Duckwall/Alco Inc. and when his health prevented him from working, they moved back to McCook to be near family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Neva Williams; and his infant daughter, Theana Lea.

Survivors include his wife, Dessa of McCook; two sons, Kevin Williams and wife, Teresa and their children, Shelby and Tanner of Turpin, OK and Shawn Williams and wife, Carla, and their children, Christopher and Courtney of Joplin, MO; one daughter, Alisa and husband, Kim Parde, and their children, Atheana and Dustin of McCook; one brother, Lee Williams and wife, Martha, of Fort Worth, TX; sister, LaVonne and husband, Vincent Leitner, of Woodland Park, CO; numerous relatives and friends.

Graveside services will be in Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver, CO on Wednesday, March 10, 2004, 2:00 p.m. m.s.t. with Chaplin David Kenney officiating. Burial will be in Fort Logan National Cemetery with military honors.

Memorials may be given in his name.

Friends in McCook may sign his book at the funeral home Monday and Tuesday.

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