Elmo Williamson

Elmo Williamson, age 90, of Garretson, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2008. Funeral services will begin at 10:30 A.M. Monday, May 19, 2008 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Jasper, Minnesota with burial in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Garretson. Visitation with the family present will be from 2-4:00 P.M. Sunday at the Minnehaha Funeral Home, Garretson. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Garretson Dollars for Scholars or the Garretson Community Ambulance.

Elmo was born on the home farm in Rock County, Minnesota on January 16, 1918 to Martin and Alma (Stromme) Williamson. After graduating from Garretson High School he attended South Dakota State College, receiving a dairy short course certification. He worked at the creameries in Garretson and Madison, and as wholesale grocery foreman at Nash Finch in Sioux Falls. He enlisted in the Army Air Force, and served from 1942-1946 attaining the rank of Sergeant. After the Army discharge came the love of his life, Dorothy Reese. They were married on June 14, 1946 at Trinity Lutheran Church at Jasper, Minnesota. Their membership at Trinity has continued to the present.

As a Rock County farmer for over 61 years, Elmo enjoyed raising Polled Herefords and using his John Deere tractors and equipment. His efforts resulted in many recognitions including Minnesota Polled Hereford Hall of Fame, Rock County Outstanding Conservation Awards and Focus the Nation Family Farm Wind Turbine Designation. Elmo was a 61 year member of the Henry G. Fix Post No. 23 in Garretson and was proud of his military service in World War II.

In his retirement, Elmo continued his interest in horses and livestock and also began restoring and driving antique cars and tractors. He wintered in Arizona and enjoyed playing golf, which he only started playing at the age of 70.

Over his 90 plus years, family was very important; Elmo and Dorothy raised four children: Eileen (Floyd) Swier, Ramona, SD, Wayne (Jolene) Williamson, Yankton, SD, Stan (Karen) Williamson, Garretson and Mary (Jerry) Blankers, Lake Wilson, MN; twelve grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Elmo was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Perry. In addition to his children and grandchildren survivors include his wife, Dorothy and a brother, Vernon (Phyllis) Williamson and many nieces and nephews.