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). Caring grandfather of 19, especially grandson/son Randy Sherwin, great grandfather and great-great grandfather of many more. Predeceased by his three siblings. Richard (Dick) was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #429 for 59 years and was a member of the Masonic Lodge of Canada for 60 years. Dick was a decorated World War II veteran with the R.C.A.F. where he began his flying career at the tender age of 18 years old. While serving as a fighter pilot in the war he flew 90 missions and was shot down three times and lived to tell the tale; this was the beginning of Dick's passion for flying. He began his tourism business, Watson's Algoma Vacations Ltd. in 1946 (Pine Portage Lodge and then Kaby Lodge), and Watson's Skyways Ltd. in 1986. He held his commercial pilot's license until he was 72 years old. He will be missed by his many 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 4:00 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.

At the going down of the sun
And in the morning
We will remember them.
Watson, Richard Arthur