April 14, 1926 - September 16, 2017
William John Watt “Uncle Willie” passed away peacefully in the Olds Hospital Long-Term Care Unit on September 16, 2021 at the age of 95.
He was born April 14, 1926 at the Brown’s House in Olds to Catherine and William Watt Sr. He spent his first 3 years living with his family on the Joe Bentz farm. In 1929, they moved to the Samis District, north of Olds. William attended the Samis School, either walking or riding horse back to get there. Following school, he farmed with his dad, then later took over the farm with his brother Robert (Bob). Not only did he farm with his brother, but William and Robert, along with Robert’s family, lived together in the family farmhouse creating endless memories together. At the age of 70, William retired to the Mount View Lodge in Olds.
He was a member of the Olds Beef Calf Club for several years, Olds Swine Club for a year, Olds Agricultural Society for a number of years and the Samis Community Club. He enjoyed playing ball with the community team. Once living in the lodge, he became an avid crib player, loved playing bingo, socializing every night and making the best of his 23 years in retirement. William enjoyed traveling once he retired, making it to Scotland to visit family and partaking in numerous cruises. William will be remembered for the twinkle in his eye, his calm and kind nature, a phenomenal memory for dates, statistics, family history and a dedicated family man. All his nephews and nieces are internally grateful for the interest he took in each of their lives. As his siblings became ill, he spent many hours with them during their hospital days, for which we are all grateful.
William is survived by his sister-in-law Jenny Watt; nieces and nephews: Terry Watt and family; Heather (Ken Clancy) Watt and family; Dale (Shelley) Watt and family; Colin Haining and family; Moira (Collin) Bradshaw; Linda (Craig) Reade and family; Gary (Jody) Rasmussen and family; Bruce (Val) Rasmussen; Gordon Lefebvre; Glenn (Nicholas Hill) Lefebvre; Diane (Mike) Boettcher and family; Sue (Marty Baxter) Lefebvre and family.
He is also survived by his second family the residents and staff of the Mount View Lodge.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by sisters, Margaret Watt, Frances Haining, Catherine Rasmussen and Mary Lefebvre; brother Robert (Bob) Watt; brothers-in-law Robert (Bob) Haining, Harry Rasmussen and Chester (Chet) Lefebvre; nephews John and Gavin Haining; niece Sheila Haining; and niece-in-law Joan Haining.
A private family service will be held at a later date. Those who want to remember William are encouraged to make a donation to the Mount View Lodge in Olds. Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., Olds entrusted with arrangements. 403-507-8610 Condolences may be made or viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com
