Mitsuko Williams

Mitsuko Williams, 78.

Champaign, IL resident Mitsuko "Mitzi" Williams, passed away on Nov 11, 2021, at Carle Hospital in Urbana, IL with her family by her side.

She was born Sept 20, 1943, in Wagu, Japan, to parents Kenzo and Masae Nishioka. She moved to the US in 1966 to pursue a second BA at Westmar College in Iowa. After receiving a Masters in Library Science from the University of Illinois, she worked for many years in the U of I library system and was head Librarian at the University of Illinois Veterinary Medicine Library for 16 years.

She met her husband of 52 years, Mark Williams, while both were working as summer camp counselors at Camp Algonquin in Algonquin, IL. They were married in 1969 and had 2 daughters, Mya and Erika, and have a beloved dog Mochi.

She was a devoted spouse, mother, and grandmother. Her interests included collecting orchids, gardening, and spending time with family. She was an active member of the Central Illinois Orchid Society, Prairie State Orchid Society in Springfield, a Master Gardener, and volunteer with Allerton Allies.

She is survived by husband Mark Williams; 2 daughters and their spouses Mya & David Kesler; and Erika and Eric Engstrom; 2 grandsons Elias and Kai Kesler; and 1 granddog Kuriko Engstrom. Her brother and his spouse, Jo and Shizue Nishioka, niece and nephew Naomi and Jun. Brother-in-law and his spouse Bruce and Barb Williams; nieces Jen and Melissa.

No services are planned at this time but condolences may be sent to Mark Williams at 3208 S First St, Champaign, IL 61822. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to:

- Champaign County Humane Society, 1911 East Main Street, Urbana, IL 61802.

- Allerton Allies, c/o Allerton Park, 515 Old Timber Road, Monticello, IL 61856 or contact Mindy at brand@illinois.edu 217-333-3287.

Cremation arrangements have been made at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 710 N. Neil St. Champaign, Illinois 61820

Please join her family in sharing memories, photos and videos on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com