Mark Williams

Mark Woodrow Williams, 64, of Kansas City, died Saturday, July 28, 2012, at his home, following a lengthy illness. Private services will be held at a later time.
Mr. Williams was born July 8, 1948, in Independence to W. Woodrow and Jewell Adams Williams. He graduated from Williams Chrisman High School in 1966, and worked as a draftsman following graduation. During this time he joined the Naval Air Reserves and earned a private pilot’s license. Later he attended the University of Missouri and received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in 1972 and master’s degree in 1974.
His first professional position was with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill of Chicago, and he later worked for Black & Veatch and Butler Manufacturing in Kansas City. A great deal of his work dealt with the structural stress on buildings and bridges.
On his own time, Mr. Williams enjoyed flying and woodworking. He collected unusual woods and made unique toys, fine furniture, and intricate, decorative pieces. He also enjoyed building household additions, fishing, and video poker.
Survivors include two sisters, Valerie Goodin [husband, Richard] and Pamela Springsteel of Columbia; a niece, Natalie McGrath of Colorado; a nephew, Greg Reser of Arizona; an aunt, Margaret Morrison of Cincinnati and five cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, an aunt, Cornelia Campbell, and a cousin, Robert Morrison.