William "Willie" Watson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William “Willie” Watson. He died peacefully in Cypress Regional Hospital in Swift Current on July 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born at Laigh Knoweglass farm, near East Kilbride, Scotland on March 30, 1951, Willie was the youngest child of John and Jeannie Watson. He came to Canada in 1971 and soon after, moved to Maple Creek. It was here that he met the love of his life, Ellen, and they married on September 1, 1973. He and Ellen took over the farm from his father-in-law and built it to the operation it is today. It was here that they raised their family: Lisa, Jennifer and John.

Willie was a hardworking man, deeply rooted in the values he lived by. Every sunrise found him caring for his farmstead with quiet determination, perseverance and grit – traits that served him well especially during challenging times. Ranching wasn't just his livelihood—it was his calling. However, he always had time for a visit with friends or a trip to Scotland to see his family. He was kind, generous, and always ready with a helping hand. His laugh was infectious and his sense of humor lightened even the toughest days. More than anything, he loved his family. His strength was matched only by his gentleness at home, where he was a steady presence, offering love, laughter, and unwavering support to his wife, children and grandchildren. He lived with purpose, worked with heart, and gave his best to both his loved ones and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ellen; his children, Lisa Kostecki (Scott), Jennifer Bonneville (Danny) and John Watson (Julie); his grandchildren Cody, Shay, Jayce, Dominic, Seth, Mady, Noah, Eden and Rhett; his sister Margaret (Davey) Law and his brothers, Bobby (Lily) Watson and Jim (Elizabeth) Watson; brother-in-law John (Thelma) Pearce, sisters-in-law Heather Smith and Kathy (Rocky) Davis and numerous nephews and nieces.  He is predeceased by parents John and Jeannie Watson, brothers Johnny Watson and Andrew Watson, in-laws Bill and Edith Pearce, sister-in-law Sally Pearce and nephew Cody Davis.

Those who wish to honor Willie's memory are invited to make a donation to First Steps Wellness Centre in Regina, a place that helped him immeasurably the last four years. 

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