Don Watson’s Funeral 27 May
Blackburn baritone Don Watson’s service took place at St Luke’s Uniting Church, Mount Waverley where three generations of the family had worshipped.
The Rev. John Mann officiated, and tributes came from Don’s sister, from a fellow Sea Scout and from daughters Emma and Jessica. The congregation heard about Don’s early sporting and Sea Scouting interests, his engineering career and tales of many happy family holiday trips around the country.
Victoria Welsh Choir was a very important part of Don’s life. Recruited by fellow bus driver Geoff Roberts, Don enjoyed the challenge of learning Welsh hymns and other repertoire for almost ten years. Nine members attended the service and led the congregational singing of two hymns – Be Thou My Vision and Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer.
Emma and Jess’ mother Marion died after a short battle with cancer, a few months before their 20th wedding anniversary. The girls reckoned that, including dating, their mum and dad knew each other for some 23 years.
Marion died on 7 May 2003. Don died exactly 23 years later, to the day.
An uncanny but beautiful coincidence.