February 2, 1934 - January 6, 2022
The family is grateful for the kindness and compassion of so many: 911 operators & responders; Katriona; RD Regional Hospital ER team; Dr Swainson; Unit 31 staff & Ian: Dr. Swarts and numerous healthcare support people, family & friends.
Bob was raised in Calgary with Sister Carol. Parents, William (Bill) Kerr Watson from Lethbridge and Ester Mae (Tess) Caldwell from Warner, exposed the two to many family gatherings and life lessons that helped shape their lives.
Nothing came easy, but hard work and determination would pay off. He liked visiting his Uncle Roy's farm. Dad boxed and skied in his youth. Dad's hero was his Father, who survived WWI, providing for his family in spite of his injuries.
Dad graduated from the UofA in 1956 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He celebrated his 65th virtual reunion in 2021. He held various positions throughout his career: Westinghouse; City of Calgary; City of Red Deer and his own consulting business in Calgary & Red Deer. He was active with APEGA. Dad had many industry and alumni friendships over the years he was grateful for.
Dad met and married Margaret Jane Louisa Stevenson in Hamilton, Ont. on September 7, 1957.
The newlyweds moved to Calgary and began their family. His 1926 Model T made a trek to Banff with his Dad on occasion. We skied as a family in Banff and tented throughout the mountains and into BC during family vacations. We spent many weekends skating at Bowness Park.
A move to Red Deer area was next. Dad loved rural living and his property and farming as much as he loved engineering. He raised 6 active kids; chickens; turkeys and cattle. He was fond of gardening, growing vegetables & flowers and harvesting berries on his land.
He volunteered with the Balmoral Community and many more groups. So many solid friendships with the rural community were formed. Thank you to all. Dad remained at home for as long as his heart would allow.
Dad enjoyed family gatherings - organizing Mom's Bday/New Year's meal out; special occasions with family. He was proud of all of us & loved his family. He had an endless list of stories to share. He cared and worried and offered suggestions when asked. Dad was a generous and proud man. He instilled a strong work ethic in all of us as nothing in life came without hard work. Quitting wasn't an option.
A keen interest in Genealogy led to excursions to England, Scotland, India and Cyprus with Mom. He wore his kilt proudly, danced in Scottish Country Dance events and attended Robbie Burns Day celebrations when he could. Dad was a member of the Willow Valley Presbyterian Church and formed some strong friendships there.
To the EL&P Old Timers Coffee Club, you were his brothers. He spoke so fondly of all of you.
Dad is survived by wife, Margaret of 64 years. Children: William (Rhonda); Steven (Shelley); Jane (Rod); Andrew (Carol); Craig & Michelle (Duncan). Grandchildren: Janelle (Chris);Chad: Torin (Ashley); Troy (Lauren);Kalynna; Natalya; Julija & Livya. Great Grandchildren: Jaiyda;Tatum and Olive.
Sister Carol (Bob) Liddle and family: Tom - Ellis & Watts; Mike (Nathalie); Sherri (Mike) - Alex; Teagan & Caylee; Bryce (Bonnie) - Sawyer & Jade.
Sister in law, Jill Sorenson & her daughters Linda & family & Karen & family;
Brother in law, David (Jacky) Jarvie and family
Friend & Cousin, Casey (Arlene) Jones & family.
Many more relatives from the Watson/Caldwell and Stevenson/Jarvie clan in BC; AB;ON; US and England
Dad was predeceased by infant Daughter, Grace Louisa; Parents: Bill & Tess Watson; Mom's Parents: James & Violet Stevenson and Bob & Gladys Jarvie; Mom's Sisters and spouses: Jean (Alan)Burrell; Betty (Charles)Botton; Mom's Brother and spouse: Jack & Iris Stevenson and others.
Due to current conditions, a Service will not be held. A family event is planned for the Spring/Fall of 2022. Final arrangements entrusted to Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Service. In lieu of flowers, a donation to your Charity of choice or the Heart & Stroke Foundation.