Claude John Williams

Claude John Williams of Seattle, Washington, died October 29, 2009.

Claude was born February 22, 1920 to Hugh and Winnefred ("Maisie") Williams in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Claude received his Aeronautical Engineering degree from the Boeing School of Aeronautics in Alameda, California, in 1939.

Claude made a significant contribution to the Canadian World War 2 effort through his work in the Canadian aircraft industry. Claude worked for Fleet Aircraft in Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada, where he met his wife-to-be, Patricia Ann Dickson.

Claude subsequently worked for AVRO in Toronto, Ontario, and then moved to Seattle, Washington in December 1960 to work for the Boeing Aircraft Company.

Claude attended classes at the University of Washington in preparation for obtaining his Professional Engineer license in Mechanical Engineering from the State of Washington in 1964. While with Boeing, Claude was a key participant on a number of projects for the space program (Lunar Orbiter, etc.).

Claude loved the Northwest and all of the recreational activities that abound in this region. He was an avid skier, tennis player, cyclist, and at one time, was a member of the Granite Curling Club. Claude also enjoyed playing bridge with friends and family members. Claude and Patricia enjoyed traveling in the United States, Canada, and Europe.

Claude truly enjoyed the antics and enthusiasm of children, both his own, numerous nieces and nephews, and later in life a grandson and great granddaughters.

Claude was preceded in death by his son, Dr. Kerry Williams, and his brother, George Williams. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Patricia, his daughter, Marilyn Williams-Jordan, his son-in-law, James Jordan, his daughter-in-law, Dr. Janette Williams, his grandson, Andrew Jordan and his wife, Michelle, and great granddaughters, Delaney and Bliss Jordan, and many relatives located throughout Canada.

A celebration of Claude's life will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2009, at 1:00 pm, at Seaview United Methodist Church, 4620 SW Graham St., Seattle, WA, 98136. A reception will follow the service.