Obituary of John James Williamson

June 7, 1927 - Calumet, Quebec

March 27, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

John James Williamson, beloved husband of Therese (Teri) Williamson (nee St Louis) of Calgary, AB passed away on Monday, March 27, 2023 at the age of 95 years. 

John was born in Calumet, QC on June 7, 1927.  He was one of nine children born to William Allan Williamson and Marie Jeanne Williamson.  Of his five sisters and three brothers, John is survived only by his sister Marie Williamson, currently residing in Ontario.

John was an accomplished pianist and hockey player. During his service as a member of the Canadian Army Reserve, he played hockey as a member of the armed services and his skill level was so high, he may well have become a professional hockey player if not for his decision to become a parish priest. John’s commitment to the church and his passion for theology sustained him during the years he spent providing guidance and support to parishioners fortunate enough participate in his communities. 

John was granted a Rescript of Laicization by the Church and subsequently married Teri Williamson on March 23, 1972, immediately gaining six children to help raise. He earned a Bachelor of Education degree and a graduate diploma from the University of Alberta and taught math and French for the Parkland School Division until his retirement. 

Throughout his life John’s dedication to his faith, his work and to Teri would remain his highest priority. He was a scholar at heart and spent countless hours reading theology and writing about current Catholic promising practices and areas where improvement in the church was needed. John loved visiting with friends and family and took particular delight with the great-grandchildren who came to see him. He was kind and loved hearing their thoughts and experiences.  He especially loved holding his great-grandchildren, as babies were very special in both he and Teri’s lives. 

Besides his loving wife Teri, John is survived by his six children and their spouses. His family legacy includes thirty-two grandchildren, and twenty-six and three quarters great-grandchildren.

Miss Me – But Let Me Go

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me,

I want no tears or gloom-filled room

Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little but not too long

And not with your head bowed low,

Remember the love that we once shared

Miss me – but let me go.

For this is a journey we all must take

And each must go alone,

It’s all part of the Master’s plan

A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick of heart

See family and friends we know.

Take time to heal, tho’ we must part

Miss me – but let me go.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB), on Friday, April 14, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of John Williamson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.