Obituary of Arno Jay Williams

Arno Jay Williams was born January 15, 1951 to Raymond and June (Harris) Williams at Fort Campbell, Kentucky and he died on August 18, 2025 at his home in Bay City, Michigan.

He was raised as an “Army brat” in Washington DC, Germany, Steilacoom, WA and Leesville, Louisiana and enjoyed each of the new adventures. After his father’s death in 1966, his family settled in his mother’s hometown of Bay City, Michigan where he graduated from TL Handy High School in 1969 and met his future wife, Kaye (Batschke) Williams.  Arno enrolled in the Marine Corp and served as Lance Corporal, First Marine Division, First Regimental Scout Sniper Platoon in Vietnam from 1969-1971. Upon returning from active duty service he moved to California and lived there for over 20 years before returning to Bay City and reconnecting with Kaye. They were married March 12, 1994 and celebrated 31 years together.

Arno is survived by his wife, Kaye, his children, Damien, Amanda and Troy, bonus children, Jessica Chambers and Russ Mayo and grandchildren along with his sister, Pamela Williams, Harris cousins, and Kaye’s family.  In addition to his parents, Arno was also predeceased by his brother, Jon Williams and his in-laws, Frank & Ruth Batschke.

Arno enjoyed many opportunities and interests throughout his life including woodworking, target shooting, fishing, golf and especially his helicopter business, Morningstar helicopter.

Prolonged injuries received in Vietnam impeded his many activities and made his later years challenging while trying to spend his final years appreciating all of his blessings.

A special thank you to Compassus Hospice for their care and support.

My husband, my Marine, you didn’t die in combat but Vietnam ultimately killed you. Semper Fi.

Memorial contributions can be made to Bay County Animal Services and Adoption Center, 800 Livingston St, Bay City, MI 48708, Bay Community Tennis Association, PO Box 607, Bay City, MI 48707, or the charity of the donor's choice.

Private burial with military honors will be held at the Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, Michigan.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.