Melvin Keith Williamson1919 ~ 2016Melvin K. Williamson (Mel), 97, passed away November 15, 2016 in Boise, ID after deciding living to 100 was going to be too much work. He was born on November 9, 1919 to Erna Ray Williamson and Mabel Bentley Williamson in Grant, Iowa. He spent his early childhood on his family's farm in Minnesota learning strong work ethic by tending to the animals, working the fields and taking on odd jobs so he could buy him and his brother a gun. At the onset of the great depression, the family put all their worldly belongings on a train and in a Model-T and headed west. They ended up buying a farm in Nampa where he spent his teenage years and graduated from Nampa High School. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army entering World war II, serving his country from 1941-1945. Those 4 years were spent overseas in Italy, Germany and the Middle East as a radio mechanic and loyal friend to his fellow troops. After all these years, he could still recall their names. He spent his post-war career in the wholesale produce business and then working for the Idaho Statesman until retirement.In 1963, he was introduced by his soon to be future daughter to the love of his life. He married Shirley Hendrix of Boise and inherited a family as big as his heart. They spent 40 wonderful years traveling, cooking, and camping, him smoking cigars and taking care of stray animals and serving as members of the Eagles Lodge. Together they would create amazing family summer barbeques, unforgettable Christmas Eve events and always had room in their basement for the transitioning grandchild. Shirley suffered a debilitating stroke in 1995 and he still loved on her as her main caregiver till her passing in 2003.Mel had an awesome sense of humor and a gigantic personality spreading laughter everywhere he went. He loved telling stories (he had 97 years' worth) and spoofing on current events. His engaging style always made him the life of the party. He also had that special way of showing his love; every grandchild thought he or she was his favorite. As he grew older, he remained very independent, driving, shopping and having a "drink "with his buddies at the Eagles and playing pinochle with his "girlfriends" at the Senior Center. He welcomed every visitor to his home with a seat, a hot cup of coffee and a humorous anecdote, always a true gentleman.Though life threw him many curve balls and hardships, he remained steadfast in his faith and ability. He truly was a member of the greatest generation and an inspiration to many, a man who will always be missed and greatly remembered. "Keep them laughing in Heaven Grand Dad!"He is survived by his son from his first marriage, Chuck (Gloria) Williamson in Washington; second marriage daughter, Karen Freiberg in Boise; daughter Kay (Joe) Serrano in California; daughter, Kathy Jobbett in Arizona; and daughter-in-law, Barbara Rowell in California. He is also survived by 20 grandchildren, 40 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren. Mel was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley; his parents; 3 siblings; 1 son; 1 son-in-law; and 1 grandson.Graveside services will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, November 19, 2016 at Dry Creek Cemetery. Memorial donations are suggested to the Eagles Aerie #115, 7025 Overland Road, Boise, Idaho 83709. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Mel's memorial webpage at www.summersfuneral.com.