John Douglas Williamson

John was born on March 11, 1940 to Oliver and Ellen Williamson. He grew up in Navarre, Minnesota, surrounded by his parents, grandparents, and five siblings.

John was a graduate of Mound High School, Class of 1958 and he proudly served his country in the United States Navy after high school until 1964.

Music was an important part of John's life. He was a longtime member of the Barbershop Harmony Society (SPEBSQSA), the Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America. He also shared his love of singing as a member of the choirs at St. John the Baptist of Excelsior and St. Therese of Deephaven. He had a wonderful appreciation for the performing arts and enjoyed being part of the community. He was a cast member in many productions and melodramas at St. John’s bringing his enthusiasm, bass voice, humor, and talent to the stage.

On many summer days you could find John on the front porch of the Thompson Summer Cottage that was built in 1887 on the shores of Lake Minnetonka by his great grandfather Charles Telford Thompson. Always a good book in hand and a story to share.

He was an avid coin collector and proud numismatist, enjoying the history and stories represented in his collections.

Above all, John treasured his family. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Barbara Williamson Gokcen.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Kay Williamson; daughter, Deborah Foss; son, Lance Williamson; granddaughter, Madeline Tollerud (Braden); grandson, Nicholas Foss (Ellie); and great-granddaughter, Evangeline Louise Tollerud. He is also survived by his siblings, Anne, Jim (Andrea), Rick (Sharon), and Wendy, as well as many nieces and nephews.

John will be remembered for his love of family, music, community, and the many activities that brought him joy. His presence and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mass of Christian Burial to be held Wednesday, September 9, at St. Therese of Deephaven, 18323 Minnetonka Blvd, Wayzata, MN, at 11AM with visitation one half-hour prior.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Animal Humane Society (animalhumanesociety.org) or St. Labre Indian School of Montana (give.stlabre.org)