Ron Watson 1948 - 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden passing of our brother, uncle, and great-uncle, Ron Watson, on June 13th, 2026, in Swift Current, Saskatchewan.  Born to Doris and Lister Watson in Eston, Saskatchewan, Ron was brother to Millie (Garry Grant – deceased), Bill (deceased), Grant, and Glen (infant - deceased); uncle to Janice (David Vetters) and Warren; and beloved ‘Gruncle Ron’ to Rayna, Alec, Gillian, and Sloan.

Ron spent his early years surrounded by extended family and friends in Portreeve, Saskatchewan, where there was always a cousin or classmate excited for a game of kick the can or shinny. Summers were spent at their family farm in the beautiful hills south of the Lancer Ferry, where he farmed with his brothers into his 70s. Ron was passionate about the history of the land, conservation, and the marriage of traditional and modern farming techniques.  This deep sense of duty to the land and his community led him to serve as Councillor for the municipality of Miry Creek, Delegate to the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool, and a strong supporter of the National Farmers Union.

Sports were a big part of Ron’s life, especially baseball and hockey. As a young man, he was a proud Lancer Drifter and Abby Eagle and had the scars to prove it. After his skating and sliding days were over, Ron took up golf and settled for watching sports (and the purple martins that live in his bird houses) from the comfort of his recliner.  Ron never missed a Blue Jays game - which tended to spike his blood pressure on a regular basis. Many of his favourite stories came from days spent on the golf course with great friends, both at Eston Riverside and on trips taken to escape the snow.

Ron also had wonderful stories from travels with his great friends, Terry Toews and Stewart Wells. He believed that seeing and experiencing other cultures was a gift and took the opportunity whenever he could. As much as he loved those trips, he equally enjoyed 25 years of Terry’s monthly potlucks with their extended friend group.  You could always count on Ron to bring the pizza!

Ron was very special to his sister, Millie, and her kids, Janice and Warren. He was a regular at the house in Saskatoon, summer trips to Keeley Lake, and winter vacations in Palm Springs.  We will miss his sharp wit, his quiet generosity, and the example he set of living true to your values and with integrity.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the Lancer Community Hall (125 Balaclava Street, Lancer, Saskatchewan).