Vernon P. 'Pete' Williams

May 13, 1941-March 7, 2004

Vernon P. "Pete" Williams, 62, died Sunday (March 7, 2004) at his home in McCook.

He was born May 13, 1941, to George Edward and Thora "Neva" (Russell) Williams in Ordway, Colo. He graduated from Manitou Springs, Colo., High School in 1959.

He entered the US Marines in 1960 and served in the Vietnam War. He continued to serve his country until his honorable discharge in 1969.

On May 31, 1960, he married Dessa Wilson in Aurora, Colo. The couple made their home in several locations where he managed retail stores for more than 30 years. He was owner and operator of his own business, Shelby's $14.99 store in Dodge City, Kan., for three years. His last employment was with Duckwall/Alco Inc. When his health prevented him from working, he moved to McCook to be near family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and infant daughter, Theana Lea.

Survivors include his wife, Dessa of McCook; two sons, Kevin Williams and wife, Teresa of Turpin, Okla., Shawn Williams and wife, Carla of Joplin, Mo.; one daughter, Alisa and husband, Kim Parde of McCook; one brother, Lee Williams and wife, Martha of Fort Worth, Texas; sister, LaVonne and husband, Vincent Leitner of Woodland Park, Colo.; and six grandchildren.

Services are Wednesday, 1 p.m., in Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver with Chaplin David Kenney officiating. Interment will be in Fort Logan National Cemetery, with military honors.

Memorials may be given in his name.

Friends may sign the guest book today at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook is in charge of the arrangements.