Thomas Edwin 'Tom' Williams, 58

Thomas Edwin "Tom" Williams, 58, passed away near Bonners Ferry on Friday, July 16, 2004.

A memorial service will be held at the Hope Elementary School in Hope at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 22. Tom's minister, Scott Douglas, will be officiating.

Tom moved to Alaska more than 20 years ago, living the life of a gold miner, bartenders, salesman and entrepreneur of a small town that made headlines back in the '80s outside the town of Hope, Ala. Over the years, he tried many businesses; he owned his own auditing business working with the nation's insurance companies and most recently was inspirational in setting up the Clark Fork Economic Development Corporation.

Tom was a church-going man who prayed daily to God. He always had a smile on his face and was a hardy spirit, a modern-day pioneer who confronted and conquered the Alaskan wilderness on a daily basis for over 20 years, a feat very few people accomplish.

He was a leader, with a big ego, a man who willingly occupied the front seat in all endeavors. During the late '70s he was a pro-gold miners activist who believed in the right of all persons to legally mine for gold without unjustified interference from outside interests and endured professional and personal losses to champion his cause.

Tom was helpful to people in need, always quick to offer a meal or change a tire. Tom was loved and will be sorely missed by family and those friends who knew him well.

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Robert and Carlotta Williams and grandsons Keith and Kevin Williams, all residing in Italy; his son and daughter-in-law Douglas and Julianne Williams, of Anchorage, Ala.; and by his sister, Carol Williams.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Norma. Arrangements are under the are of Coffelt Funeral Service.