Obituary of Richard Williams

Richard M. Williams, 73, of Ballston Spa, passed away December 29, 2014 at home with his loving family at his side. Born in Chicago, IL, he was the son of the late Frank and Naomi Douglas Williams. Dick graduated from St. Mel's High School in Chicago and attended Quincy College and Northern University. He received his Juris Doctorate from Kent School of Law. Dick was an assistant District Attorney, United States Assistant Attorney and Assistant General Attorney. Richard served as a commissioned officer, Active Duty, US Marine Corps, honorably discharged as Captain. He received numerous medals and citations while in active combat. He moved to the Capital District from Chicago in 1981. In the reserves from 1983-1999, he served with the JAG Corps, USNR. In addition to other duties, he provided legal assistance to personnel of the Naval Administration Unit, Scotia and the Nuclear Training Facility in Saratoga NY, retiring as Commander. He was married to the former Rose Ann Marotto on September 27, 1986 in Albany, NY. Dick worked as an attorney for the NYSDEC in Albany. His other acting duties was as an attorney for the Police Officers and Forest Rangers and atty for the Division of Construction Grants. He was licensed in both Chicago and New York. His passion was in flying. He was a flight instructor for many years at Richmor Aviation in Scotia. Survivors include his wife Rose Ann Williams; two daughters, Joanna Fargnoli of Colonie and Jeannine Fargnoli of Ballston Spa; his son, Philip (Stephanie) Fargnoli of Ballston Lake; two grandsons: Evan Williams and Cooper Alan Fargnoli. He leaves behind his brother, Thomas (Beth) Williams and a sister, Gail (James) Kennedy, all of Ridgway, CO. Dick was predeceased by his brother Robert Williams and his two canine companions Blazer and Douglas. The Williams family would like to thank the nurses and staff of St. Peter's Hospital Respiratory Unit. A special thank you to Isabell and Karen for their utmost care and compassion. There are no words to express OUR gratitude to Dr. Theodore Zeltner. Funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family. Memorials may be made in Richard M. Williams name to the Michael J. Fox Foundation or to Steve Caporizzo's Pet Connection. Full military honors will be held at Saratoga National Cemetery.