Vincent Kenneth McWilliams, age 70 of Waterford, passed away peacefully at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, NY on Wednesday, April 13, 2011 after a courageous battle with Leukemia. Born in Union City on October 5, 1940, he was a son of the late Kenneth Melvin and Marjorie Arlene Cook McWilliams.
Vince managed and owned his own milk hauling business for 50 years, and after retiring in 2008, he enjoyed helping his boys with the family business, Seal N Stripe.
Always with a smile on his face, Vince enjoyed life and was a good friend to many people. He made it his daily routine to drive into Waterford to see his friends at Jake’s. He was active with the American Legion Softball Team and was an avid bowler at LeBoeuf Lanes. Also, Vinnie loved his tractor, his Jeep, and riding his Harley. Most of all, Vince was a great man, father of five, and friend to all. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends more than anyone can know.
Vince is survived by his loving wife Jorja Ryland McWilliams, whom he married August 21, 1993; five children, Michael and his wife Stephanie of Edinboro, Gregory and Shawn, both of Waterford, and Branden and Kenny, both at home. He is also survived by a sister, Vera Powell and husband Richard of Cambridge Springs; two brothers, Vere McWilliams, and John McWilliams and his wife Debbie, all of Waterford; five grandchildren, Corey, Nicholas, Alexis, Ricky, and Hannah; several nieces and nephews; his former wife Katherine Luther; and his lifelong friend Ron Finch.
Visiting hours will be at the Van Matre Funeral Home, 105 Walnut Street, Waterford on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. Funeral services will be there Monday morning at 10:00 a.m. officiated by Rev. Greg Majchrzak. Burial will follow at Waterford Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the John Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation, 130 West 8th Street, Erie, PA 16501.
Our hearts are saddened by the loss of this sweet, funny, and loving man. We feel blessed that our lives were enriched by this wonderful family. We will miss his infectious smile, great humor and strength. Jorja, please know that we will be there for you and your family, anytime, any day, always. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Love Mickey, Joe, Caleb, Mikey and Nancy
It is hard to beleve that a dear man Vince is not around to hear that wonderful laugh of his! The Story written in the Obit is true he was a friend of all. Our hearts pain for all the family and friends. The comfort we can get is the thought of the time when no more will any of us have to deal with sickness and death. The bible holds that promise in its last book Revelation 21:4 when Death will be no more. Also a time when there will be a welcoming back those who have passed away in John 5:28,29 a great resurection. Pam & I hope this helps a little. For we know the pain in heart is still great.
We will miss the Red Jeep running threw Waterford with Vince at the wheel!!
We send our love to the whole family.
Sincerely Sparkie & Pam Edwards
My Sweet Friend Jorja, my heart goes out to you and your family. So sorry for your loss. I am saddened and want you to know you are close in my thoughts and prayers. Lovingly~
Karen
Sorry for your loss Branden, Kenny, and jorja McWilliams. Branden and Kenny spoke very well of their father.Let him be with us for all eternity.
Jorja, I was saddened to learn that Vince passed away. There are no words, just know my thoughts are with you at this time. Please call if you need me.
Sue
As a friend of Vera and Rich Powell I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the McWilliams family. Vera spoke often of Vince and how much she enjoyed her family. My best to Jorja and hoping in time peace and calmness will support her.
Nancy and I extend our sincere condolences to the McWilliams family. It is again true, the good die young.
Vince, you were always smiling whenever I saw you. Know that you were loved and will be missed.
Jorja, prayers are with you and the kids. Let me know if there is anything you need.
Love, Char