Michael William Bernard Watson

Dr. Michael W. B. Watson M.R.C.S. L.R.C.P. D.R.C.O.G.

19th April, 1927 - 27th September, 2026

It is with profound grief and deepest sadness that we announce the passing of the head and heart of our family. Michael passed away at age 99 at the Edmonton General Continuing Care Centre with family at his side.

A devoted family man, Michael leaves to mourn his loss his beloved wife, Dorothy May (Jody) Watson; Children - David (Susan) Watson, Shelagh (Lowell) Watson-Preuss,  Ruth (Helmut) Klebe, Deonaidd/Jenny Osborne, Brad/Hughie (Nicky) Morrison, Stacey (Stephen) Evans; Grandchildren - Julie (Derek) Watson, Amy (Adam) Jacobs, Daniel (Nicholas) Watson, Andrew (Niki) Klebe, Wendy (Sheldon) White, Adam (Kaylee) Preuss, Nathan (Breanne) Osborne,Stephen (Jennelle) Osborne, David (Avery) Watson, Lelan (Alex) Boros, Breanna (Tom) Service, Brittny (Ryan) Maertens-Poole, Samantha (Troy) Kennedy; Siblings - Rev. Robert Watson, Rev. Timothy (Sue) Watson, Catherine Hayes-Allen, all of whom reside in England. Michael leaves 23 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Michael was predeceased by his son, Iain Douglas Watson (Edmonton), brother Rev. John Watson (England), sister Rosemary Kinghorn (Scotland),
brothers-in-law James Kinghorn and Tony Hayes-Allen; sisters-in-law June Watson and Ann Watson.

Michael was born in Beckenham, Kent, England. During WWII, as a teenager, he was active in the Royal Observer Corps., watching for and identifying enemy planes across the English Channel. Michael studied medicine at the London Hospital before joining the Royal Air Force as a physician, where he was lovingly known as ‘Doc'. While in the RAF, Michael developed into a crack shot and competed for the air force team at international shooting contests at Bisley. He left the force in 1968 with the rank of Wing Commander.

After leaving the RAF Michael emigrated to Canada, initially setting up his medical practice in Barrhead, Alberta. A few years later he moved his practice to Edmonton, where many of his patients from Barrhead continued with Michael as their family physician. Michael continued his distinguished career as a general practice physician for many years, working in his own clinic and at the Misericordia Hospital. Latterly his career focused on Geriatric Medicine. He was instrumental in establishing the Day program at what was then the Edmonton General Hospital, subsequently heading the team at the Dickensfield Day Hospital. He was a keen learner and was involved in medical research and education of medical students and colleagues. Into his late 80’s, he continued to contribute to his profession, serving as a medical consultant on two Dependent Adult Mental Health Panels.

Beyond his commitment to his wife Jody, their family, his patients, their friends and their church, Michael was always deeply committed to serving his community in whatever way he could. His dedication, determination, strong work ethic, and passion for loving and living was evident in everything he did and in which he believed. His wings were ready. Our hearts were not. There is a hole in our hearts which will never be filled.

We would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Rajoo and the entire medical staff on Unit 7C of the EGCCC.

A service to honour Michael’s life will be held at
2:00 PM on Saturday,  7 November, 2026
St. Peter’s Anglican Church
11035-127 St, Edmonton, AB

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing in Michael’s name to the charity of your choice or to the Pilgrims Hospice Society, Edmonton, Alberta.