Barbara Ann Williams

Barbara A. Williams, 85, of Kewadin, MI (formerly of Ann Arbor) passed away on May 19, 2024, only six weeks following the death of her beloved husband of 63 years, Roger L. Williams. Barbara was born on October 21, 1938, in Cleveland, OH to the late Rose (Kovitch) Bogolin and Frank Bogolin. Barbara, or “Babs” as she was affectionately known, attended Collinwood High School in Cleveland, OH where she met Roger, the love of her life. She earned her B.S. in Education from Miami University in Oxford, OH in 1960 and she married Roger that same year. Babs later earned an M.A. in Counseling from Eastern Michigan University in 1974. Her 33-year career began as an elementary school teacher in Illinois and concluded as a high school counselor in Milan, MI. During her 22 years at Milan High School, she served as the advisor for both the Student Council and S.A.D.D., coordinated the Student Assistance Program for the district, developed the Peer Listening Program, and participated in the Teen Institute of Michigan for many summers. Babs moved “up north” shortly after retirement where she and Roger had built their dream home. For many wonderful years, they enjoyed living in both northern Michigan and Tucson, AZ. Babs had several leisure time passions including travel, gardening, golf, skiing, kayaking, pickleball and learning about anything that piqued her endless curiosity of nature and the world. Nothing brought her more joy than gathering with family, especially her grandchildren. Babs is survived by her children Kelly Williams, Wendy Picard, and Roger J. (Tara) Williams, grandchildren Alec, Kaitlyn, Griffin, Greta, Addison, and Reagan, great grandchildren Bailey and Joey. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Sarah Bogolin and many nieces and nephews. Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Roger L. Williams, her dear parents and brother F. Ronald Bogolin, sister-in-law Leota (Thomas) Robinson, brother-in-law John "Jack" (Betty) Williams, and aunt, Frances Bogolin. A combined memorial service honoring Barbara and her beloved husband, Roger, will take place at 12:00 p.m., with visitation starting at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, June 21, 2024 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Elk Rapids. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy at www.gtrlc.org. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Barbara’s family at her tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com

Barbara Ann Williams

October 21, 1938 - May 19, 2024