Bruce George Watson (89) of North Fort Myers Florida passed away on March 8, 2017 in Tega Cay, South Carolina.
Bruce was born on April 26, 1927 in Stoughton, Wisconsin, to George Ralph and Beulah Mabel Parish Watson. He grew up in Madison, Wisconsin and was active in Boy Scouts, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. He was a track star in High School, winning a state championship in high hurdles and continued to compete in college. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Soil Science. Bruce served in the Navy during World War II.
He worked for the US Soil Conservation Service for many years, retiring early to a perfect summer home on Lake Champlain, Vermont and spending winters at Six Lakes Park in North Fort Myers. There, Bruce and Burnette were well known for their involvement in the tennis club, winning many tournaments and playing into their 80s. Bruce taught tennis and enjoyed introducing new students to the game he loved. Recently, Bruce and Burnette received a Meritorious Service Award in recognition of their many contributions to the betterment of Six Lakes Country Club. Summers in Vermont were spent entertaining children and grandchildren and teaching them how to sail, fish, and play croquet, ping-pong and card games.
He is survived by his children, Karen Madsen (Utah), Kay Watson (Spain), David Watson (Tennessee) and Kristi Phillips (South Carolina), eleven grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and his sister, Barbara Paris (Wisconsin). He was preceded in death by his loving wife Burnette Watson.
The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Vermont and Six Lakes friends who cared for and loved Bruce in his final years. Memorial donations may be made to the Vermont Land Trust (https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/VLTDonate) or Six Lakes Park Memorial Garden (239-995-0595).
A funeral and burial service will take place in South Hero, Vermont this spring. Minor Funeral Home of Milton Vermont will arrange the funeral.