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John Williamson Obituary
A Celebration of Life for John 'Jack' Williamson, 59, Lawrence, will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, April 12 at Mustard Seed Church 700 Wakarusa Dr Lawrence, KS 66049. Jack died Saturday, April 6, 2013, from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.
Jack was born July 3, 1953, in Aurora, Ill., the son of John and Barbara Baker Williamson. He graduated from Ritenour High School and later earned his Bachelor's degree from Missouri State University and a Master's of Science and Education from the University of Arizona.
Jack worked as a UniServ Director and organizer for the Kansas National Education Association serving teachers and other education employees in Douglas, Miami, and Franklin Counties. Previously, he taught history and economics in Springfield, MO where he also served as wrestling coach. Jack was himself an accomplished wrestler and avid bicyclist. He took up motorcycling with the same enthusiasm and advocated for motorcycles legislation. He was a member of ABATE and the X WINOS Motorcycle Club.
Jack was also a member of the Holmes Brigade Union Civil War Reenactment Group, using his love of American history while participating in historical reenactments throughout the Midwest.
Jack loved politics and worked tirelessly to elect pro-public education candidates. His enthusiasm was contagious and brought many teachers in both Kansas and Missouri into political action.
Jack married Virginia 'Ginny' McQuaide on Apr. 17, 1987 in Joplin, MO. She survives of the home. Other survivors include four sons – Joe Williamson, Austin, TX; James Williamson, Columbia, MO; Aaron Snyder, Chattanooga, TN; Joel Snyder and wife Katie, Springfield, MO; and two daughters – Erin Williamson, Kansas City and Cara Snyder, Topeka. Survivors also include his mother, Barbara Williamson, Brighton, MI; six sisters – Mary Bischoff, Malvern, PA; Gail Hall and husband Warren, Del Mar, CA; Lynda Henderson and husband Phil, Colorado Springs; Diane Williamson, Brighton, MI; Karen Ruffatto and husband Jim, Chatham, IL; and Barbara Mekkes and husband Greg, Norfolk, VA; and one grandson, Evan Snyder.
The family will receive friends following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to National Alliance on Mental Health, 3803 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste 100 Arlington, VA 22203, in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana St., Lawrence, KS, 66044. Online condolences may be sent at rumsey-yost.com
I fear nothing. I want nothing. I am free... Nikos Kazantzakis
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Memories and Condolences
for John Williamson
April 25, 2013
Ginny, My deepest sympathies for your loss. I remember you and Jack from my Holmes Brigade days which were the best of times. I can't count howmany conversations we had either about history or 'wrasslin'. I never let him know that I didn't care one iota about wrestling but when you've got such a friend as Jack, you act like your interested! 'sides, he was so passionate about it he almost got me to like the sport! I remember when you guys got togeather and and all the good times with Holmes. I surly miss the moments with the
Brigade but more so the friends...like you two. I do hope that time will heal the pain for you but also increase the good memories that you and Jack had togeather!
Dan Krueger
April 15, 2013
Dear Ginny,
Mary and I were greatly sadden to learn of Jack's passing. Many happy memories came flooding back of y'all as VIPs at Wilson's Creek. All of our best to you during this difficult time.
Rick & Mary Hatcher
April 11, 2013
I met Jack when he arrived to begin working for and with KNEA members as UniServ Director for Capital UniServ and was privileged to be his office partner and friend, as well as his colleague and union sister. He will be missed by so many for so many reasons. You are in our thoughts as you struggle with this profound loss. Lily Kober
Dave Sullivan
April 10, 2013
I first met Jack when I first joined Holmes Brigade and and from the very start, he was welcomed me with his great smile. He was so much fun to be around and it was great watching him wrestle the young guys and beat them every time. I really enjoyed the talks we had at Ft. Scott not only about history but also motorcycles. Jack was a great pard. He truly will be missed. My prayers go out to his family and always know Jack will be always with you in spirit.
Dave Sullivan
Holmes Brigade
April 10, 2013
May love of family and wonderful memories give you strength and comfort in this time of great loss.
Karen & Dr. Tom Sweeney
Rick Bone
April 10, 2013
My prayers go out to Ginny and the family. Jack was a pleasure to deal with and I know Heaven is a better place with him there.
David Quin
April 10, 2013
Jack was my Pard. We served together and no matter the conditions, he brought a ready smile and laughter. He will be missed by all who knew him. He will leave a vacant hole in our ranks. (David from the Holmes Brigade.)
Ron Crow
April 10, 2013
Jack was a good friend in the Holmes Brigade. I will always remember his smile, his laugh, showing wrestling moves, and our discussions of both teaching and history.
Annie Tietze
April 10, 2013
My prayers are with you all. Losing Jack will leave an empty space in many lives.
John Keller (Holmes B.)
April 10, 2013
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Pam Ensley
April 10, 2013
As an educator, I met Jack through Capital UniServe in the Topeka office. I appreciated his kindness, humor, and voice of reason when dealing with tough teacher issues. When we would run into each other unexpectedly, he would always greet with me with his warm smile and enthusiasm. I am sorry to hear of his passing, and I offer prayers of healing for his family, friends, and colleagues.
Pam Ensley
April 10, 2013
As an educator, I met Jack through Capital UniServe. I appreciated his kindness, humor, and voice of reason when dealing with tough teacher issues. He always had a warm greeting when we would meet unexpectedly! I am so sorry to hear of his passing, and I offer prayers for his family, friends, and colleagues.
Deb Goodrich Bisel
April 10, 2013
The history community has lost a beloved member and a valuable advocate. My heart goes out to each of you who loved this good man.
Darrell McCune
April 10, 2013
I worked closely with Jack for a number of years in Prairie Fire UniServ. He was energetic, intelligent and understanding as he tirelessly served the teachers in our area. We will miss him greatly!
April 10, 2013
Like Cesar Chavez, with Jack "It was always about the people." Knowing him was life changing. I'm so sorry for your loss.
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