EMERSON WATSON

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EMERSON WATSON November 13, 1925 - May 16, 2017 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Emerson Watson, beloved husband of Esther and the "greatest father" to Pauline and Catherine. He left us peacefully on May 16, 2017, with his granddaughter, Meagan, by his side. Emerson was predeceased by his parents, Doris and Emerson Watson II, brother Roland and wife Ann, sister Irene and husband Gordon Hart. He is survived by his loving wife Esther, of 67 years, daughter Pauline (Larry) two grandchildren, Jason and Jennifer; his daughter Catherine (Gary) and two grandchildren, Christopher and Meagan, and as well by three great-grandchildren, Jessica, Keira, and Liam. He will be fondly recalled by his family, Noreen and George in England, along with numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Emerson the III, was born on Friday, November 13, 1925 in Newbiggen-by-the-Sea, Northumberland, England. He grew up with an older brother, Roland and two younger sisters, Irene and Noreen. As a very young man he worked in the coal mines, and when he was 16 he conscripted with the Durham Home Guard. He met Esther during the Second World War where, according to Home Guard records, he served his country as a gunner with the 102nd Battalion and, later, driver and confidante to numerous officers and dignitaries. Only Emerson the III's closest friends were ever aware of the full extent of his participation in the war efforts. Our parents married on July 31, 1949 in Stainton, Cleveland in Yorkshire, and that's where they "made their home" and raised their eldest daughter until they made their decision to immigrate to Canada. Emerson and his brother-in-law, Gordon, arrived in Montreal on May 15, 1957. They travelled to Winnipeg and resided with an uncle until they found employment and new homes for their families. We were all reunited in August, 1957. Dad worked as a mechanic for Brown's Automotive in Winnipeg. He then worked at the Rolling Mills in Selkirk for 25 years as the lead hydraulic mechanic, on call for whenever repairs were needed and often at all hours of the morning. Their youngest daughter, Catherine, came along in 1964. A very welcome surprise for us all. Dad and Mom travelled throughout Canada, often taking visitors from overseas with them. There were many trips to the States, Hawaii, and of course several back home to England. Emerson was a long time member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 42 and the Selkirk Masonic Hall, Lisgar Lodge #2. Dad was well known for his sense of humour, and the stories he told with a very straight face were believed by many. He loved his sweets, fancy cars, fishing, and encouraged Mom's love of gardening. He was a joker, a very loving and caring husband, and doted on his daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a "best friend" to many and very well liked by all who knew him. He was also known as the "Candy Man" of Cambridge where he resided with Esther for the last three years. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, May 31, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in the Gilbart Funeral Chapel, Selkirk, MB. Interment of ashes will take place at the St. Clement's Cemetery. The family thanks Dr. B. Lindenschmidt and the nursing staff of the Selkirk General Hospital for the wonderful and compassionate care they gave our father. Thanks also to Gilbart Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the charity of your choice. Condolences may be left at www.gilbartfuneralhome.com Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 20, 2017