John Williams

September 14, 1954 - April 18, 2026 John Ward Williams, 71, of Palmer, Alaska, passed away peacefully at home on hospice on April 18, 2026. Born on September 14, 1954, John was born in Fairbanks, grew up in Anchorage and graduated from East High School in 1972. John dedicated his life to service, adventure, and family. He began his career working on a seismograph boat in the Bering Sea before joining the Anchorage Fire Department in 1976. Over the next 25 years, he rose to the rank of Captain, mentoring countless firefighters and leaving a lasting legacy of leadership. After retiring from the fire department in 2001, John pursued his passion for the outdoors as a hunting guide with Knik Glacier Adventures until 2022. An avid outdoorsman, John found joy in mountain running and racing, white water rafting, hunting, fishing, four-wheeling, snow machining, skiing, golfing, and traveling to new places or to see family and friends. He also enjoyed quieter moments making wine, bird watching, and reading. His adventurous spirit was matched by his deep love for his family and friends. John cherished his grandchildren and was known for his warm heart, great sense of humor, and gift for storytelling. John is survived by Ellen Williams, his beloved wife; his daughter Liz Shahan; stepdaughter Samantha Jones; grandchildren Casey Shahan, Kamira Fields, and Kingsley Dopwell; brother Dick Williams and sister-in-law Lynn Williams; and stepbrother Paul Bjore. He was predeceased by his parents Casey and Margaret Williams and stepfather Gene Bjore. A funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 5:00 PM at St. Michael's Catholic Church, 432 E Fireweed Ave., Palmer, AK. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Palmer Food Bank (www.palmerfoodbank.org). John’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May his adventurous spirit continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to share in his remarkable life.