Albert Edward 'Monte' Williamson Jr., 86

Albert Edward "Monte" Williamson Jr., 86, avid golfer, civil engineer and Pittsburgh Steelers football fan, died peacefully Sept. 26, 2007.

Born and raised in Montana, Monte graduated from Missoula High School, where he was a champion golfer and also excelled in football and basketball. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from Montana State University, where he was also a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity.

While working for the war effort in Seattle, he met Lora Stratford. They were married in 1943 and had two children, Carole and Albert Edward III "Ed".

Monte was employed as a civil engineer by Chicago Bridge and Iron Company, headquartered in Chicago and later in Pittsburgh. During the 1960s in Pittsburgh, Monte was instrumental in securing contracts with Westinghouse Electric for the construction of nuclear power plants.

In 1972, Monte began a new chapter in his career with Chicago Bridge, becoming vice president of operations in Beirut, Lebanon. There he coordinated the construction of oil pipelines and storage facilities throughout the Middle East. When Beirut became unsafe, he was transferred to London.

Monte and Lora retired in 1981 to his favorite place, Flathead Lake. There he was able to pursue his passions for sailing and golfing. He was very proud of his home state and always delighted in showing visitors the beauty of Big Sky Country.

Lora passed away in 1989.

While later vacationing in California, Monte met Charlotte Carver, another avid golfer. They married in 1997 and split their time between Flathead Lake and Goleta, Calif. Together they enjoyed travel to Europe as well as a sailing adventure in the San Juan Islands on Sneakin' Around, Monte's sailboat.

Monte is survived by his wife, Charlotte Carver, of Goleta, Calif.; brother, Hu Williamson, of Bozeman; daughter, Carole Wade, of Park City, Utah; son and daughter-in-law, Ed and Colleen Williamson, of Pittsburgh; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

A tribute, "Remembering Monte," was held Tuesday, Oct. 2, for family and friends.

The family wishes to thank the many people who have been so helpful and supportive.