William 'Bill' H. Williamson, 74, Marine Engineer

He was born April 14, 1932 in Birkenhead Cheshire, England and has been a Vermilion resident since 1978. He had also lived in Vermilion between 1968 and 1971 moving to Montreal Canada and South Africa.

He worked as a Marine Engineer for Inter Lake Steamship Co., Cleveland for 18 years, retiring in 1997. He had also worked for American Ship, Lorain.

Mr. Williamson was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Vermilion, Knights of Columbus # 4539, Amvets Post #22 and the Propeller Club, Cleveland. He was instrumental in starting the Vermilion Soccer Club where he coached many teams. He also enjoyed playing soccer on the Sunday Stumblers, sponsored by the Amvets, fishing, boating, bowling, ballroom dancing, camping and traveling.

Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Margaret (nee Gahagan) Williamson; sons; Rob Williamson of Vermilion, John Williamson of Ravena, New York and Graham Williamson of Vermilion; daughter, Margaret Woods of Vermilion; 9 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and sister, Ethel Meager of Birkenhead Cheshire, England.

Preceding him in death were his mother, Ada (nee Bennett) Williamson, father and step-mother, William and Ida (nee Moores) Williamson and brothers, Bob, Albert, and Ken Williamson.

Friends may call Sunday Jan. 7, 2007 from 2-5 pm at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio where the Knights of Columbus will conduct a service at 5 pm.

Prayers will be said at the funeral home on Monday, Jan. 8, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary Catholic Church, 731 Exchange Street, Vermilion. Fr. Jim Holmer will officiate. Interment will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery, Vermilion.

Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, 11432 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44106 or Hospice of Western Reserve, 424 Middle Ave, Elyria, OH 44035.

Online condolences may be made to www.riddlefuneralhome.com.