Ann Marie Williams

Ann Marie Williams, age 74 of Prescott, WI, and formerly of Hastings, died Thursday, January 19, 2017, at United Hospital in St. Paul following an extended illness. She had been residing at Prescott Nursing and Rehabilitation Community for the past few years as her health declined. Ann Marie was born May 9, 1942, in St. Paul to Thomas and Monica (Schaffer) Maher. She attended Bethlehem Academy Catholic School in Faribault prior to high school, first at South St. Paul and later St. Paul Park. On October 18, 1958, Ann was united in marriage to Norman "Eugene" Williams in Mason City, Iowa. Following their wedding, Ann retuned to high school and graduated with the class of 1962. She then began working at Echo Plastics in Hastings where she made countless Gumby and Pokey figurines, and also worked at the original Gardner House as a waitress. Ann eventually started at Island Bingo Hall and later became manager of the money room until retiring in the early 90s. Ann loved reading, book keeping, bowling and shopping. No matter if she needed it or not, she never thought twice about buying something when she was out! Ann also loved her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews and cherished the time she spent with her family. She was preceded in death by her parents and by her nephew, John Gahler. Ann is survived by her husband, of 58 years, Eugene; their four children, Thomas Williams of Hastings, Lori (Rich) Freiermuth of Hastings, Terence Williams of Hastings, and Victoria (Paul) Heschke of Red Wing; her grandchildren, Justin, Ian, Amy, Faron, and Dyson; her great grandchildren, Myles, Mason, Deacon and Aubrey; her siblings, Tom "Soft Rock" Maher, Terry "Hard Rock" Maher, and Sheila (Mike) Gahler; and by her many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 24, 2017, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Hastings, with Father David Hennen officiating. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be held 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday at Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home Cremation Services in Hastings, and will continue for one hour prior to Mass at church on Tuesday morning.