In Loving Memory of

Janet Watson

of Edmonton
May 9, 1931 - Oct 27, 2016

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Janet Mackenzie Watson in Edmonton, Alberta.

Janet is survived by her husband of 61 years, Douglas Watson; her two brothers, Thomas and Alick, and their families; her children, Martha (Willie King), Ian (Janine Pearson) and Alick (Anne); and her six grandchildren (Emily (David Clanachan), Christopher, Maxwell, Fiona, Gillian, and Anik), each of whom she adored and celebrated.

Born and raised in Toronto, the daughter of Florence Gill Ryder (nee Mackenzie) and John Hubbell Ryder, Janet attended school at Whitney Public School and at Bishop Strachan School. Summers were spent at cottages on Toronto Island and Stony Lake. In 1949, Janet attended University of Toronto, where she continued to excel, graduating in 1953. Janet was a proud alumnus of both BSS and U of T, and cherished her BSS friends throughout her life. In 1971, she returned to school, and graduated with an Education Certificate from the University of Manitoba.

In July, 1950, Janet crossed the country and travelled to the Yukon via BC ferry, and met her future husband, Douglas Watson, a native of Carcross. Married on August 26, 1955, in Toronto, they promptly headed West.

Janet showed fortitude in those early years, setting up house many times as Douglas’s career took him throughout BC and into Alberta. In 1965, with 3 young children, they settled in Winnipeg, and were immediately part of the vibrant community there. Janet was a tireless volunteer, and she took great pleasure in gardening, in creating handwork, and in sleuthing out her family’s genealogical roots. She knew every inch of Canada, had friends from coast to coast to coast, and loved her country tremendously.

In 2013, Janet and Douglas moved to Edmonton to be near their daughter, Martha. Again, she entered this new chapter with sparkling optimism. In the last years, as throughout her life, she faced health challenges with courage and grace. She will always be remembered for her engaging smile and her generosity toward others.

The family sends its deepest thanks to friends and staff at Canterbury Manor, and to its fellow parishioners at Christ Church.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, November 5, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. at the Anglican Parish of Christ Church (Edmonton).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. George’s Anglican Church for The Thelma Wynne Project, St. George’s Anglican Church, 168 Wilton St., Winnipeg, MB, R3M 3G3 (http://www.rupertsland.ca/mission/thelmawynne-project/).