Charles Williams

Charles Whiteside (Chuck) Williams, died peacefully at his home in Saugatuck, Michigan on October 19, 2022, with his loving wife of 72 years, Gloria, by his side. He was 2 weeks shy of his 92nd birthday.

Chuck was born on November 6, 1930 in Peoria, Illinois, to Charles and Sue May Williams, and an older brother Bill.

Chuck attended Tabor Academy in Marion Massachusetts on a sports scholarship, then attended Babson College where across the street, he met the love of his life, Gloria. Chuck and Gloria were married on August 18, 1950. They were blessed with 5 sons and 1 daughter. Chuck served in the Army as a sharp shooter. based at Fort Benning, Georgia. Chuck and Gloria settled in Columbus, Ohio for many years before visiting his cousin in Macatawa, where they purchased a cottage, “Treetops Lodge” which became a labor of love renovation. Chuck was an avid sailor, racing Ensigns at Macatawa Bay Yacht Club and competing in many major regattas across the country.

They moved to Douglas, Michigan upon retiring where Chuck served as Mayor. Then on to Saugatuck. The children were scattered across the country, and Chuck was a gifted story teller, so he kept the family in touch with each other through his monthly “Buccaroo” newsletter. Chuck and Gloria wintered at Outdoor Resorts of America in Melbourne Beach, Florida for 34 years. They made many long time friends, playing tennis and most recently Pickleball, until he was 89! He served on the board of directors for 16 years.

Chuck was preceded in death by his son, Walter Stark Williams and granddaughter, Halie Kay Williams. He is survived by his wife, Gloria, children, Scott Williams, Skip (Gretchen) Williams, Tim (Lesa) Williams, Eddie (Angela) Williams and Wendy (Jeff) Reinink, 13 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

No services are planned. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of Holland.

Arrangements are by the Dykstra Funeral Home-Saugatuck Chapel.