Benjamin Williamson, 86 / Nov. 23, 1924 — Feb. 10, 2011

Published 9:20 pm Thursday, February 17, 2011

Benjamin D. Williamson, 86, of Eagle Lake in Edwardsburg, passed to his rest Feb. 10, 2011 at his home after an illness.

He was born Nov. 23, 1924 in West Liberty, Ohio to Dewey and Bertha (Smith) Williamson. He worked for many years for the railroad, First New York Central, then Penn Central and later for Amtrak. He was in supervision of cars.

Ben served his country twice, first in World War II in the U.S. Army and he was released in 1946 as a corporal. Later, he served during the Korean War and was released in 1953 as a part of the Medical Service Corps with the rank of first lieutenant. He received a Purple Heart and the European Service Medal with two Bronze Stars.

He was a member of the Edwardsburg American Legion and the Elks Lodge of Elkhart.

He was married on March 14, 1948 in Bellefontaine, Ohio to M. Jane Corbett, who survives along with his children, Denise (Alan) Bowman of Elkhart, Todd (Myra) Williamson of Fremont, Ind., Lisa (Gene) Duncan and Cliff Williamson of Edwardsburg and Susan (Max) Shafer of Goshen. There are 11 loving grandchildren and eight dear great-grandchildren. He has two sisters, Clara Young and Ann Williamson, both of Springfield, Ohio.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, James and two sisters, Mildred Dachenbach and Marie Stocker.

Cremation has taken place. There will be no interment.

Friends visited with the family Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2011 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Edwardsburg American Legion, 25751 U.S. Highway 12 East.

A buffet was served at 7 p.m. followed at 8 p.m. with the U.S. Army Honor Guard folding the American flag and playing “Taps.”

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Hospice at Home, 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, MI 49085.

Arrangements by Paul E. Mayhew Funeral Home, Edwardsburg.