Linda Kay Williams

After a lengthy illness, Linda Kay Williams, aged 80, died Monday, Jan. 30,2023, at the Boundary Waters Care Center.Linda was bom to Harold and Hazel Wheeland in Edgar, Nebraska.

She was preceded in death by her father; mother; twin brother, Lonnie; brother, Jack; and her loving husband, Barry.

Linda is survived by her sister, Marcia Buresch, in Nebraska; son, Doug (Rhonda) Williams in Georgia; daughter, Michelle Cole in Ely, Minnesota; and Steve (Kristin) Williams in Burnsville, Minnesota. She leaves behind 12 grandchildren: Jessica Cole, Travis Cole, Alicia Cole, Casey Swain, Tyler Williams, Bryan (Tomi) Cole, Dylan (Mallory) Williams, Tanner Williams, Kylie Williams, Kendal Williams and Daisy Williams, along with nine great-grandchildren: Eddie Swapinski, Audrey Swapinski, Brenden Swain, Emery Cole, Cassius Boshey, Corbin Williams, Braxton Swain, Oakley Williams and Magnolia Williams.

In 1961, Linda met Barry Williams in Lincoln, Nebraska. They married on Jan. 5, 1963. Shortly after the wedding, Linda and Barry moved to Ely, Minnesota, Barry’s hometown. Linda enjoyed her life in Ely. She worked as a waitress at Bridgeman’s and Vertin’s. Linda was an active member of Ely United Methodist Church for more than 50 years. Her favorite things were time with family, summer vacations to Nebraska, camping trips to Fall Lake and “treasure hunting” at garage sales. Linda absolutely loved Christmas and everything about Christmas. She had a talent for decorating for the holiday. She also enjoyed sports, especially the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the Minnesota Vikings. She could often be found in the stands at one of her children’s, and later her grandchildrens’, sporting events or activities.

Linda, Grandma Linn or GG as she liked to be called, was the warmest and most caring GG in the world. She will be missed dearly and her family will always cherish their stories and time together. We all love you GG with all our hearts. May you find those treasures up in heaven and thank you for your treasures you left behind here.

A funeral was held at the Ely United Methodist Church at 11 a.m., Feb. 4, with visitation one hour prior.

Family arrangements were entrusted to Kerntz Funeral Home of Ely.