Karl Williams Obituary

Dean and I werer blessed to meet Karl and have him as a house guest here in Crestone, Colorado in August, 2013. He was a friendly, fun guy to be around. Condolences to all the family.

I never knew Karl personally and had only one conversation with him nearly 9 years ago. Even though I didn't know him, he changed my life. My daughter Jordan, at 15 years old was diagnosed with leukemia. Her only chance at survival was a bone marrow transplant and none of us related to her matched. Her doctors sent her blood work to the bone marrow registry and started a search for a matching donor. We found one; Karl. Karl was contacted by the registry and asked if he would donate his marrow and he did. His simple act of kindness and service to others gave my girl her life back. His selflessness is forever etched on my heart. One year after Jordan's bone marrow transplant we asked if we could receive her donors contact information. Karl accepted and both Jordan and I were able to speak with him and thank him for this unbelievably enormous gift of life. How do you thank someone properly for such a gift? When I asked Karl why he became a donor he said that the Air Force had a bone marrow drive and his commanding officers explained the importance of becoming a donor and that it is not to be taken lightly. If you were called to serve and provide life saving marrow you should not refuse. Anyone who couldn't make the commitment need not register. Karl registered and when his marrow came back as a nearly perfect match to Jordan he made the trip to donate it as those words rang out in his ears. He knew the stakes were high. Someone's life depended on his action and he didn't hesitate. When I think of people who have made life changing impressions on me, Karl rises to the top. He's the epitome of a hero. I was very saddened to learn of his recent passing. This was a man who not only served in the Air Force for 23 years, he served outside of the Air Force too. We should all aspire to follow his lead and help others whenever possible. Thank you Karl. Thank you for your unparalleled gift. You gave me the ability to see my daughter become the woman she is today. Not only has she lived, she has shined because you made it all possible.

Karl was one of the best cousins anyone could ask for. When my mother and father were sick, with cancer, Karl was there to comfort friends and family. Even with his own disabilities, Karl would make the 150 mile trip to visit and stay. Karl, thank you for everything and you will be missed dearly. Lots of Love

I met Karl through Mary Oulette and Adrian Williams while I was stationed at PAFB, CO. He truly was a friendly, funny, nice person. He was there for me when I had car trouble. Always there to lend a helping hand to those in need. I remember hanging out with him helping him get his place organized. He took me to Pikes Peak. He introduced me to the music of Rush. Tyed dyed shirts will always remind me of him. Rest in paradise buddy. You will never be forgotten. My condolences to his family.

Judith & Family - So sorry about the loss of your younger brother, Karl. It always seems harder to lose a loved one who is so young. I am glad you have each other to share photos and memories. May the Celebration of Karl's life with family and friends be a comfort to you all.