Violet "Bonnie" Williams

Violet "Bonnie" Williams, age 88, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2025 at Columbia Health Care Center. 

She was born on June 28, 1936, in the town of Scott, Columbia County, Wisconsin. Bonnie was a graduate of Cambria High School in 1954, and she continued her pursuit of education at Columbia County Teachers College. She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, followed by a master’s degree in counseling psychology, a PhD in education psychology, and a minor in statistics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

Bonnie dedicated much of her life to education. She began as a teacher in the Rio School District, then served as a counseling psychologist for Oakfield school district, and later tutored students in statistics at UW-Madison. Throughout her career, she was deeply committed to fostering growth and learning in her students. An active member of her community and profession, Bonnie held leadership roles in numerous civic and professional organizations. She served as president of the Columbia County Area Teachers Association and the Columbia County Teachers College Alumni Association, and was a lifelong member of the Wisconsin Education Association and the National Education Association. Bonnie married Roy A. Williams on August 13, 1955, at Zion Lutheran Church in Cambria, Wisconsin. They were just shy of celebrating their 60th anniversary when Roy passed away in 2015. Together, they shared a love for flying, and were members of the Rio flying club. Bonnie also traveled to 31 countries, with Athens and Rome being among her favorites. Above all, Bonnie cherished her role as a grandmother. 

Bonnie is survived by her children: Dr. Shelly Williams Hostetter (Al) of Smyrna, GA; twin sons: Ken (Barb) Williams of Cambria and Kevin (Linda) Williams of Fox Lake; grandchildren: Arianna, Bryce, Aaron, Leah, and Amanda; sister, Evelyn Grebel; along with many other relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Mabel (Domes) Herman; her husband, Roy; brothers Arnold and Elwood; and sisters: Inez Hughes, Lillian Heilman and Mildred Daniels. 

A private family service will be held. Memorials may be directed to the Cambria Cemetery Chapel Fund or the Presbyterian Church of Cambria. The Werner Harmsen Funeral Home in Cambria is assisting the family.