Richard Watson: 1923-2010

SooToday.com received the following announcement today from the Gilmartin Funeral Home in Wawa regarding World War II veteran Richard Watson.

***************************** WATSON, Richard Arthur - Passed away suddenly with his family by his side on Monday, December 6, 2010 at the Lady Dunn Health Centre at the age of 87 years. 

Beloved husband of the late B.Edna Watson (passed away June 15, 2010). 

Cherished father of Betty McGie (William), Cathy Watson, Pat Cox (Rick), Richard 'Dick' Watson Jr. (Rosalie), Tom Watson (Michel), Kevin Watson (Pauline) and step-father of Barbara Sherwin and the late William Fletcher (Cora). 

Very caring grampy of 19, great grampy and great great grampy of many. 

Predeceased by his three siblings. 

Richard was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #429 for over 40 years and was a member of Masonic Lodge of Canada for over 60 years. 

Richard was a World War II hero fighter pilot and the R.C.A.F. is where he began flying at the tender age of 18 years old. 

While serving in the war he flew over 90 missions and was shot down a total of three times.  

This was the beginning of Richard's passion of flying, he was the founding father of Watson's Algoma Vacations Ltd. (Pine Portage Lodge/Kabby Lodge) and Watson's Skyways Ltd. 

Richard held his commercial pilots licence until he was 72 years old. 

Richard will be missed by his nieces, nephews and friends. 

A memorial service will be held at the P.M. Gilmartin Funeral Home (140 Churchill Avenue, Wawa, 1-800-439-4937) on Saturday December 11, 2010 at 4 p.m. with Pastor Ron Henson officiating. 

Memorial donations made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, C.N.I.B., Macular Degeneration or to the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated by the family.

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