Dayton Williamson

Dayton Dale Williamson a kind, gentle man who was always a portrait of positivity, died on Tuesday, October 4, 2016 after a courageous battle with cancer surrounded by his loving family.
Dayton was born a twin on March 20, 1925, to Ernest Harry and Fannie Grace (Kral) Williamson in Glenville, Minnesota. Growing up in the Great Depression era taught Dayton the appreciation of using things wisely. He served his country during World War II as a paratrooper. He was wounded during his service and received the Purple Heart.
Dayton was honorably discharged and returned home to Minneapolis where he continued his employment at Honeywell. Soon after, he met Margaret Anderson, fell in love at first sight, had a three month courtship, before they were united in marriage on June 28, 1946 in St. Peter, Minnesota. The couple made their home in Bloomington for 31 years where they raised their six children before moving to Mound for 12 years. He and Margaret relocated to the Brainerd area for the summer months and eventually to Alexandria to be closer to family. He worked for Honeywell for forty three plus years, retiring in 1986.
Dayton loved to fish, hunt, golf, travel to Las Vegas as well as going wherever the grandkids were and be in his garden. He was affectionately known to many as the "Raspberry Man" for his wonderful raspberries that he would grow and share.
In 2014, Margaret died and Dayton lost the love of his life and partner. The love the couple shared over 67 years was admired and respected. On Tuesday Dayton was reunited again with Margaret in heaven and their love is shown in the children that survive them: Bruce of Spring Park, MN, Kristy Kirch of Golden Valley, MN, Keith (Lynn) of Alexandria, MN, Sharon (Rick) Frank of Naples, FL, Carole (Nick) Peterson of Rice Lake, WI, David of Alexandria; seven grandchildren: Jennifer Meyer (Matt), Dan Williamson, Steven Frank (Verena), Susan Flavin (Mike), Heather Godfrey (Jon), Elisa Peterson, Emily Peterson; three great grandchildren: Maxwell, Alex and Augustus Meyer; brother, Richard Williamson (Mary) of Albuquerque, NM, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Margaret; parents: Ernest & Fannie; sisters: Olive Williamson & Marlys Janssen; twin brother, Donald Williamson & brother, Edward Williamson.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 18, 2016, 4:00 – 7:00 PM at the Anderson Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday. Memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 19, 2016, 11:00 a.m. at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Burial will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on June 28, 2017, in Minneapolis. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred. Arrangements are with the Anderson Funeral Home. www.andersonfuneral.net