Harold Watson

Harold Richard Watson, 79, of Fontana, Kansas died November 1, 2013 at the home of his daughter. Harold was born December 20, 1933, the son of Cleo Fern Sharp and George Dewey Watson in rural Fontana, Kansas. He graduated from Fontana High School in 1951. After graduating from high school he married Martha Jo Detmering on October 13, 1951 in Lawrence, Kansas. During their marriage they devoted their lives to raising four children. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing basketball and spending time with family and friends. Before beginning his full-time farming career Harold worked several jobs including: construction work at the Desoto Powder Plant, laying pipeline, various concrete jobs, and hauling livestock. In 1953 he began helping his dad on the family farm and he continued to farm until he retired in 2008 at the age of 75. On May 21, 2005 Harold married Shirley Waterman in Fontana, Kansas. They enjoyed traveling and spending time with their extended families. Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife Martha Watson; two brothers Earlin Watson and Elra Watson; and step daughter Ginny Miner. He is survived by his wife Shirley of LaCygne; one son Richard Watson and wife Frances of Fontana; three daughters Debbie Burchett and husband Wayne of Fontana, Barbie Feldman and husband Michael of LaCygne, and Susie Jones and husband Doug of Osawatomie; one brother Donnie Watson of Garnett; two sister-in-laws Beverly Mills and husband Eldon of Osawatomie and Mayme Watson of Fieldbrook, California; twelve grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; three step daughters Christie Storey and husband John of LaCygne, Shawn Sherry and husband Wesley of Linwood, and Laurie Mills of Leavenworth; five step grandchildren; nine step great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Memorials may be made to the Fontana Church of Christ or the LaCygne Community Food Pantry. To share a special memory of Harold or leave a condolence message for his family, please click the share memories button above.