John Watson

John “Gilbert” Watson passed away November 26, 2022 at the age of 83.

He was born in Independence, KS to Carl and Paraline Watson of rural Wayside. He is survived by one brother, Phillip (Pat) Watson of rural Havana. He was united in marriage to Lavonna R. Hannigan of Elk City, KS on January 18,1959. She preceded him in death on October 6, 1989. Their children, Julie Knight of Independence, Brenda Clegg (John) of Lenexa, and Terry and Jerry Watson of Independence.

Most of his life he was a welder and heavy equipment owner/operator. He also built computers as a hobby after retirement. After retiring, he spent his time with his grandchildren, then great grandchildren, rocking and changing diapers to sneaking the food off their plates, so they didn’t have to eat it. He loved having them get off the bus at his house and fed them Skittles because they were fruit and “healthy”, to buying them every unnecessary thing they could think of!

Grandchildren: Sarah Blackburn, Tara Brennan, Micah Knight and Hannah Rovenstine.

Great Grandchildren: Dayton Blackburn, Camry Blackburn, Zayne Al-bureni and Arlo Knight.

A Celebration of John's life will be held at Havana Cemetery on Friday, May 26th at 2:00pm.