Gently, in the early morning of Thursday, March 14, 2024, we cradled, and bid our father a tender farewell as he finally relinquished his long fight.
Our nature-loving dad left us for his “eternal glen” to join his parents, Kenneth Russell and Marie-Bertha Watson, and elder brother Clarence Watson. Like our grandfather Kenneth and Uncle Clarence, Dad bravely fought the battle with Alzheimer’s.
Glenard “Glen” Watson was the devoted, loving husband of Beth Watson for 62 years. Beloved father of David Watson (Alyson), Debbie Fleming (Dan), and Darcy Watson (Joanne). Cherished Papa and Grandpa to Kaitlyn (Zak), Lucas (Karli), Danielle (Evan), Dustin, Davis, Jim (Danielle), Dean (Taylor) and Nicholas (Savannah). Great Grandpa to Samuel, Benson, Junie, Winnie, and Chloe.
Glen was the brother of the late Clarence Watson (Carmaine), Norman Watson (the late Ruth), and Jacqueline Rashleigh (Ron). Brother-in-law to the late Bev Landriault (Alphonse), Georgina McNaught (the late Roland), Graham Hughes (Sue), Glenna Hughes (Tom), and Norma Hughes (Miller). Loving uncle to many special nieces and nephews. Glen is fondly remembered by many dear friends and neighbours in Sault Ste. Marie and in his hometown of Temiskaming Shores.
Glen was a kind-hearted and generous man who lived his life with the highest integrity. He instilled in his children a strong work ethic. At the age of 20 he began his career in Haileybury as a gas fitter serviceman with Northern Ontario Natural Gas. After a 37-year career, he retired in 1999 with Union Gas as the town supervisor for Sault Ste. Marie.
Glen had an industrious nature. Gardening, welding, plumbing, and mechanical repair were among a few of his many skills. He spent countless hours working on projects in his shop. The fruits of his labour included pumps and sleighs for his hunt camp, a swing set for his grandchildren, and even a pontoon boat known as “the Little Islander”, which he built in his shop from the ground up. He also played an instrumental role during construction projects with his children and grandchildren.
Glen thoroughly enjoyed playing hockey and golf but found the most pleasure while in nature. He held a deep love and respect for the natural environment. Glen was an avid hunter and angler who passed on his knowledge and traditions to his sons and grandsons. His family and friends will forever cherish the stories he shared of his adventures hunting and fishing.
Our family would like to give special thanks to the friends and neighbours who helped care for Dad during his last few years. The staff at the Alzheimer Society, CCAC, CBI, and F.J. Davey Home provided excellent care and support. In the last four years, our mother advocated for dad over every hurdle he encountered and faithfully followed his wishes. She has beautifully and tenderly embodied the true depths and strengths of their values. Her caring, nursing, and loving of him will always remain the strongest of the lessons blessed upon us.
In lieu of flowers, we encourage contributions in Glen’s memory to support the Alzheimer Society of SSM & Algoma District (payable by cheque or online https://alzheimer.ca/algoma/en).
The family has established a Sault College bursary in Glen’s name. Memorial contributions can be made to the Glen Watson PSW Bursary at Sault College https://www.saultcollege.ca/list-all-awards
The family wishes to restore and recuperate before a memorial mass that will take place at Precious Blood Cathedral, Sault Ste. Marie. Arrangements will be announced at a later time.
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).