Aven E (Willie) Williams died of natural causes in his home on July 19, 2022. He was 83 years old.

Willie was born on December 10, 1938 in Trenton, Nebraska. Willie attended Cal Polytechnic University in Pamona, CA for two years. He joined the Airforce in August 1960 and was honorably discharged in August of 1964. He finished his military service at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, MT. After the service Willie worked in the trades as a gas serviceman for Southern County Gas in Pamona, CA. In 1966 Willie moved his family back to Montana and he went to work for the Montana Power Company in Fairfield, MT. After a few years he started his own business, Fairfield Plumbing and Heating, which he decided to close in 1977. He then went back to work for the Montana Power Co. in Helena, MT, where he eventually retired. Willie volunteered with the Fairfield Volunteer Fire Department most of the years he lived there. In Helena he volunteered for ten years with the Lewis & Clark Literacy Council. He absolutely loved this volunteer work. He was a very patient tutor and was always challenging himself to find new ways to help his adult students learn to read.

Willie's hobbies were fly fishing and camping. He also enjoyed working in his wood shop. He taught himself about stocks and enjoyed managing his portfolio. He enjoyed music his entire life and taught himself to play the Native American flute when he was 79 years old. He composed and recorded numerous songs the last three years of his life.

Willie is survived by his children, Carlisa London (Paul) of Polson, MT and Gary Williams (Mariafe) of Coeur D'Alene, ID; granddaughter Skyla London, adopted granddaughter Sierra Trepanier; brother Lee Williams of Roy, UT and his ex-wife and mother of his children, Ann Williams of Helena, MT.

Willie is preceded in death by his parents, stepfather and brother, Gary.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, August 12, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Fort Harrison Veterans Cemetery, Helena, MT. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Willie's life. In accordance with a celebration of life, the family requests bright casual attire be worn.