Tribute to my DAD

I just wanted to say a huge THANK YOU to many wonderful friends and neighbors for all of your calls, concern, compassion, kindness and love during this difficult time in my family's life. We lost a great man, my dad, to a terrible accident on Saturday, August 15th. We are so lucky to have had him for this short time, especially the three extra days after the accident, and will forever treasure our many wonderful memories of him. I am so grateful to know that we will be together again, I love you dad! John Draper Williamson

1946 ~ 2009

Our beloved husband, dad, and grandpa passed away peacefully, on August 15, 2009 due to an accident. He was surrounded by his loving family.

John was born in Provo, UT on February 4, 1946 to John H. and Gloria Brown Williamson. He grew up on the family farm in Vineyard UT, graduating from Orem High School in 1964. In 1979 he married the love of his life, Vicki Warenski. At that time he stepped into the role of raising two little girls that he treated as his own. In 1981 he became the father of a son, John J. (J.J.) and in 1985 his second son, Jesse was born. His family was complete.

He loved and lived his life for his family, always putting them first. His life seemed best when he was at home with his family, his dog Missy, and spending time in his garden. He took pride in his beautiful yard, among the trees he planted. He has always been proud of his children and all their accomplishments. He enjoyed spending time with his sons who have always been his best friends. They loved fishing, working on cars, and just being together. He taught his children through his example to be loving, honest, respectful, and hard working.

As a faithful employee he worked at Geneva Steel for 34 years, after which he worked for Alpine School District at Lehi High and Willowcreek Jr. High. He retired in May 2009. He made many friends throughout his life who were very important to him.

He will be remembered for his quick wit, big heart, and his wisdom He had a love for the simple things in life. Those that knew him, knew he was a gentle, humble, and loving man. He was a devoted family man whose legacy will live on in both his children and grandchildren who love him dearly.

He is survived by his loving wife Vicki, sons J.J., and Jesse, daughters Kristen (Paul) Warner, Mandi (Dave) Wall, grandchildren, Kaiden, McKay, Maci, and Avery, and his dog Missy. As well as many relatives including, his sister Diane, Aunt Betty (Jay) Garrett, father-in-law Vee (Shelia) Warenski, mother-in-law Rena Mae (Norm) Taylor, sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and many cousins and friends. He was proceeded in death by his parents, John and Gloria Williamson and an infant brother Brent.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 20, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. in the Warenski Funeral Home Chapel, 1776 North 900 East, American Fork, where friends and family may call Wednesday evening from 6-7:30 p.m. and Thursday, one hour prior to services. Interment will be in the Pleasant Grove City Cemetery.

Our family wishes to extend our sincere appreciation for the compassion shown to John and our family by the American Fork Emergency team and the UVRMC Trauma ICU. Also a special thanks to friends and neighbors for all their love and concern.