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William Charles Watson

April 21, 2012

Peacefully, at Victoria Hospital, on Saturday, April 21st, 2012, William “Bill” Charles Watson, of London.  Married to the love of his life Velma (née Jordan) for over 60 years.  Loved by his daughter Mary, son Jim and his wife Shirley and by grandchildren Zachary, Spencer, Stephanie, Brittany and Carly.  Born on January 9th, 1922 in St. Thomas, Ontario, Bill was one of seven children and was the last surviving.  Bill enlisted in World War II in September, 1942, in the Royal Canadian Air Force as a navigator.  He was shot down in July 1944 over France and rescued by the French Resistance, becoming an evader until liberation and returning to Canada in October of 1944.  Bill attended the University of Toronto graduating in Forestry.  He spent his entire career with Ontario Hydro, which he so much enjoyed.  A memorial service will be conducted at the WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Friday, April 27th, 2012 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior.  Donations in Bill’s memory to the Kiwanis Middlesex London Club would be greatly appreciated.

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Mary, My condolences on the loss of your dad. In reading the tributes on line, I can tell he was a special man. May the many wonderful memories of him comfort you in this time of grief. Thinking of you, Cherie

~ Cherie Duggan

Our condolences to Velma and her family. We were neighbours on Cranbrook Rd. and enjoyed knowing Bill very much. He was a gentle, kind spirit and we know you will miss him very much. Sending you warm hugs.

~ Don & Brenda Pineo

Bill was one of kind and I'm so glad to have known such a decent, caring soul. He will be greatly missed by his caring family as well as his legion of fans, of which he had many. Rest in peace, Bill, we'll be toasting your spirit in the days and years to come. Love from Dana on the west coast.

~ Dana Coburn

Our deepest sympathy to Bill's love, Velma, and his beloved children, Mary and Jim. My parents, Ed and Maxine Claypole, both deceased within the last 3 years, were best friends of both Bill and Velma. They looked forward to the weekly phone calls from both. I remember hearing that Bill used to deliver Meals on Wheels to Seniors - it sealed my deepest respect for him forever. And then there's his incredible WW II military service to Canada. God Bless You Mr. Watson - Rest in Peace. With love, Vicki Claypole-Anderson and Scott Anderson

~ Vicki Claypole-Anderson

I met Mr. and Mrs. Cleaver shortly after they moved to Kingsville in 1967. I had become friends with their son Jim, and they suffered through our high school hi-jinks graciously. Great memories. Bill was a wonderful guy. June, I am so sorry for your loss. - Eddie Haskell

~ Eddie Haskell

We were so sorry to learn of Bill's death. He was such a gentle man and such a giving man. Everyone who knew him enjoyed his ready smile and kind words expressed so lovingly. We knew Bill and Velma when we lived closer and know that the last few years have been difficult for both of them. But now Bill has gone "home" to a loving God who will care for him. On that last day He reached down; picked Bill up gently and carried him home. May the God of Comfort deal graciously with those who mourn their loss. God bless you all. Love, James & Marion

~ The Ven. James & Marion Broadfoot

When we think of Bill & Velma, it brings a smile to our face. We enjoyed many a happy time ( and happy hour) with both our dear friends. Bill was forever the kind and considerate person who would do without, so you could have the whatever. He was an ardent fisherman and caught the grand daddy of all fish in 3 Mile Lake. Velma quipped" If he'd lost it I would have jumped in after it". Bill always had a smile and a positive outlook. His favorite expression was " this is good ". He will be missed by Velmie and we know he will continue to watch over her. He will always be near. Our love and sympathy to Mary and Jim and family. He was so proud of each of you. Much love, Terry & Joan

~ Terry & Joan McSweeney

What a wonderful man. He listened so well and made all of us feel so special. Bill and Velma welcomed us to their home and treated us as family. Our thoughts are with Jim and Mary and Velma

~ Ann and Bob Low

Aunt Velma, Mary, Jim and Family, You are in our thoughts and prayers. I have cmany wonderful memories of Uncle Bill. He was indeed a gentle man who lived life so very well. We know he has been welcomed into the community of saints. Please know too that he will live in our hearts forever. Gregg and I along with Karen and Daniel send our love to all of you. Linda

~ Linda Watson Kaufman

Dear Mary, Please know that my thoughts and heartfelt sympathy are with you and your family. May you have memories to turn to for comfort and friends to turn to for support. I know your Dad will be greatly missed.

~ Fran Linnington

I met Bill and Velma for the first time in Kingsville when I became fast friends with their daughter Mary. I met them again with my husband for a memorable meal many years later in Vancouver. A fine evening and lively discussion with a superb couple. My thoughts are with all of you - Velma, Mary and Jim during this time of loss.

~ Margie Hunt Mercieca