Dean Williams 1946-2025
Roland “Dean” Williams Jr., 79, of Whiting, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, surrounded by his family.
He was born March 4, 1946, in Topeka, the son of Roland Dean Williams Sr. and Lenamaye (Jones) Williams.
Dean graduated from Wichita North High School in 1964 and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio. A true craftsman and entrepreneur at heart, Dean built a lifelong career in the production machining industry. He began in sales with Allis-Chalmers before helping to establish SWS in Hiawatha. In 1988, his hard work and vision led him to branch out on his own, founding and operating Williams Company Inc.
On April 3, 1970, Dean married the love of his life, Carol Weekes, in Topeka. Together they celebrated more than 55 years of marriage, raised three children and built a life grounded in perseverance and generosity. Alongside running Williams Company Inc., Dean and Carol also owned and operated C&D’s Food Mart in Whiting, where they proudly served their community for many years.
Dean was known for his tireless work ethic, his generous heart and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He believed deeply in giving back — to his family, his employees and the town he loved.
Above all, Dean cherished his role as Grandpa. Dean adored his grandchildren and took great joy in creating memories with them on countless adventures — from RV trips through the Badlands and vacations to Arizona and Tennessee, to exploring Hershey Park in Pennsylvania, days at the lake and even a week-long family getaway on an 80-foot houseboat. His legacy of love, laughter and togetherness will live on through them.
Dean is survived by his devoted wife, Carol, of the home; three children, Michelle (Justin) Polter of Topeka, Kyle (Lori) Williams of Whiting, and Robyn (Justin) Pierce of Neodesha; his brother Clarence “Leroy” (Pearl) Williams of Mayetta; eight grandchildren, Bailey (Zane) Richter, Garrett Polter, Riley Polter, Cooper Williams, Reece Williams, Brooke Polter, Tysen Pierce and Braden Pierce; and three great-grandchildren, Denver Kaye, Miles Dean and Scottie Jo.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Roland and Lenamaye Williams; and his brother, Karl “Scott” Williams.
Family will greet friends from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Whiting Service Station Fund, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
