Harry Grisdale Watson
May 20, 1934-Jan. 26, 2015
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Harry , survived by his beloved and loving wife Marilynn, sons David (Rose) & Michael (predeceased by partner Gerald) and daughter Cindy Wallis (predeceased by husband Peter), grandchildren Christopher (Chelsea), Jenny, & Lindsay Wallis, & step-children Beverly Nimchuk(Steve), Byron Black (Jaimie) and step-grandchildren Miranda & Kendra Nimchuk & Will Black, one brother Jack Watson (Nan) and family.
Born and raised in Guelph, Ontario, Harry played many sports at every level, including hockey, baseball, football, curling, golf, floor curling, carpet bowling, cribbage and bridge. A fierce competitor with a tremendous will to win & improve, he willingly helped others to learn as well.
When first moving to the Comox Valley he had hobby farms in the Dove Creek and Royston Road areas and renewed his passion for horses by keeping many for trail riding and camp outs in the high country on weekends & holidays, while he was still working. He participated in the “Ride of a Lifetime” from 100 Mile House into Vancouver for Expo ‘86.
Transferring to the West Coast in 1980, ( his “heaven on earth”) & retiring from the paper industry in 1990, Harry built a home in Ships Point, Fanny Bay after giving up ranching, He embraced all the activities of that very special & unique area, enjoying his boat with family, all the OAP functions, and hosting large gatherings on the “party deck” with bocce ball tournaments on his “perfect grass” which he was very proud of.
In Nov. 2013, Harry & Marilynn moved into Courtenay to another special area, enjoying the freedom of a patio home, able to travel easier and be closer to everything necessary, telling each other every day how lucky we were to have chosen so wisely.
A devoted husband, respected and caring father, very proud Papa and loyal friend, he fought valiantly with courageous determination and stubborn optimism, strongly believing he could win the battle with lymphoma one more time. But with his “two best girls”, (wife & daughter) by his side, the “miracle man” couldn’t quite do it again and he left us peacefully, early Monday morning for a better place.
Our sincere thank you to Dr. Langhans & Dr. Comacho & the nurses in ER- Overflow, ICU and the chemo room at St. Joseph’s for giving him hope till the end.
A private celebration to honour Harry’s life will be held for family & close friends at a later date. Should friends desire, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society in Harry’s name would be greatly appreciated. No flowers, thank you.