GEORGE WATSON

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GEORGE WATSON November 4, 1932 – December 26, 2017 George passed away peacefully on December 26, 2017. He was surrounded by his wife Pat (nee Bowman); sons, Rob, Geordie and Jason; and daughter Tracey. George will be lovingly remembered by his wife Pat, of 56 years; sons, Rob (Laura), Geordie (Fil), Jason; and daughter Tracey; grandchildren, Ashley, Keegan, Jordan, Chloe and Calum; and great-grandchildren, Lachlan and Sophia; sisters, Nan (Angus) and Betty. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and their families. George was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Elizabeth (Bessy) and his brother John. George was born in Glasgow, Scotland in 1932, where his love of football (soccer) began as a youth and continued throughout his life. Just as his career as young professional footballer was set to begin in 1951, he was called to serve with the Royal Air Force. After a two year stationing in Egypt (1951 to 1953), George returned to Glasgow joining the Strathclyde Football Club as a registered professional under the Scottish Football Association. At the conclusion of his time with Strathclyde, he made his way to Winnipeg (Canada) in 1957 to support the development of the world’s game throughout Manitoba. His initial intention was to return to Glasgow, but after meeting and marrying Patricia (Pat) Bowman, Winnipeg became his home. Together George and Pat raised their four children, (Rob, Geordie, Tracey and Jason) who under their father's coaching and mentorship enjoyed many years of fond memories and life lessons that extended far beyond the game of soccer. George’s influence as a soccer coach/mentor also touched many others through years of overseeing club and provincial teams in the province. In terms of George’s impact on people's lives, he was many things to some, and something to many. Here in daughter Tracey’s words is how he influenced hers... Words cannot express enough when I think of my Dad! He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, friend and coach to many. Dad knew how to brighten up a room with his charming smile and bubbly personality. Some of my favourite memories are Dad playing the piano and singing, he knew how to get a crowd going. I remember back to Woodlawn Avenue in Winnipeg when I was a young girl and I would sneak downstairs to the landing and watch the adults singing and dancing. Ken Johnson and Dad taking turns on the piano, Dave Gittin’s playing the guitar and Uncle Jim singing his heart out. Quite often I remember Dave getting in trouble from Haldean as she was ready to go home and Dave would say “just one more song” – then Dad and the boys would take her away, playing and singing for a few more hours/drinks. Dad was an amazing soccer coach. He inspired so many young players not only at the game of soccer, but also how to be a better person in Life! His calm disposition and exceptional soccer skills made him a superior teacher of the game, and he gained tremendous respect from players, coaches, parents and the Manitoba Soccer Association. I remember attending one of Dad’s soccer camps at Minnetonka School where we were each given a soccer ball. He told us, “You will be sleeping with your soccer ball, and you will become one with it.” Well, I took him seriously and slept with my soccer ball by my side. Dad had tremendous patience, and if I wanted to learn to play something he would practice with me as long as I wanted. I remember him playing table tennis with me for hours and until I was ready to quit, he would continue to play. I could go on for hours with the incredible memories, but we will have many years ahead to reminisce about all the great stories and recollections we each have of Dad/George. Dad instilled great values and morals in all of his children and I cherish them every day. He taught me to hold my head up high, to find strength during difficult times and to be proud of who I am. When I find myself going through a difficult time in life I hear Dad’s voice saying “Stay strong this storm will pass, if you look deep there is always something positive you can learn from the experience” - and he was always right! As I stand here today I feel at Peace! I believe Dad is in a better place, where he can sing, play the piano and dance the night away pain free. Rest in Peace Dad – Gone but Never Forgotten. Love you more than words can say. A private service was held in Surrey, BC on December 28 with immediate family in attendance - no further service has been planned. Rather, we ask that you post your thoughts and messages online on the Facebook Group - George Watson’s Service - found at: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/527360787629756/

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 30, 2017