Obituary of Telford Alan Williams

Telford Alan Williams, age 90, died peacefully on December 31st, 2015, surrounded by his five children, and supported throughout his final journey by his extended family. Telford was born July 12, 1925, in Johnstown PA, son of Charles and Sarah Williams. After graduating from Southmont HS in 1943, he served in the US Navy for nearly 3 years as an Electricians Mate in the Pacific Fleet during WW II. His Navy service included participation in seven amphibious invasions, including the Philippine and Borneo Islands. Telford and Audrey E George were married on August 8, 1947, enjoying 68 years of marriage. In 1950, Telford graduated from the U. of Pittsburgh with a degree in electrical engineering. He worked 6 years at the Pennsylvania Electric Co. specializing in power generation. In 1956, Telford and family relocated to Minnesota, where he was employed by Erie Mining Co.. They lived in Grand Marais, Tofte, Taconite Harbor, and then moved to Hoyt Lakes in 1959. He continued to work for Erie until his retirement in 1987, ending his career as the Superintendent of Maintenance. Telford was an active member in several professional and community organizations, including the initial development of the early Giants Ridge Ski Area, in Biwabik MN., where he helped establish and maintain the ski lift systems. He enjoyed skiing for many years and taught his children to ski. Telford was an avid fisherman, canoeist, and camper, enjoying countless trips to lakes throughout Minnesota and Canada with his many fishing buddies and his sons. He always tried to teach his kids and grandkids the expert way to hook a minnow and filet a walleye. He also loved a round of golf with friends. Not one to rest in retirement, Telford built a beautiful lake cabin near Lutsen, MN, fulfilling a desire to return to the beauty of the North Shore of Lake Superior. The cabin became a cherished place for family gatherings, creating wonderful memories. Telford was recently active in a ongoing project to document the history of Erie Mining Co. Telford was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Hoyt Lakes, where he served in various roles and terms on the church council. His many electrical and mechanical skills were used to help build and maintain the church property. Telford was preceded in death by his beloved wife Audrey, parents, and sister, Mary E Trostle. Survivors are children Ann (Dean) Cummings, Shoreview MN, Alan (Cindy) Williams, Lino Lakes MN, Sara (Darryl) Sturgis, Chaska MN, Charles Williams, NY, and Laurie (Joe) Eichelberger, Maple Plain MN. Telford and Audrey loved and were proud of their wonderful 9 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. A joint memorial service for Telford and Audrey (who died December 12, 2015), will be held on Friday, January 15th, 11:00 am, at Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 2020 Coulter Blvd. Chanhassen, MN, 55317. Visitation one hour prior to service at church. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred in Telford and Audrey’s honor to: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Children’s Education Programs MN Vietnam Veterans Charity - Honor Flight Minnesota St. Louis County Historical Society- Erie History Project (attn: JoAnne Coombe 506 West Michigan St. Duluth, MN 55802-1505)