DONALD WILLIAM "DON" WATSON

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Don, after a long illness, bravely fought. He died on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 10:00 p.m., in his 79th year. Don was the husband of Andrew Innes, with whom he shared a long and happy relationship for 48 years. They were civilly married in 2013 after 36 years together and subsequently blessed by the Bishop of Ontario. Don was much loved by his sister, Gail, and nephews; his Oakville and Anglesey "cousins," and his many friends. He was born in Toronto on July 3, 1947, to William James Watson of Toronto and Della Maybelle Simpson of Fertile, Saskatchewan. Don attended Dewson Public School and Bloor Collegiate, where he made many lifelong friends and developed a love for theatre. In 1970/71, he began his teaching career at his old school, Dewson, making history as Toronto's first male Kindergarten teacher; ten years later, another first, becoming the first male Early Childhood Consultant in the Toronto Board of Education. In 1976, he met Andrew, and four years later they bought a house together in Cabbagetown. The '80s brought increasing responsibility first as Vice-Principal of Pape, and later as Principal of Blake Public School and East Alternative School. He also added an M.Ed. to his name. After his retirement in 2001, he spent increasing amounts of time at his farm north of Madoc, eventually moving to Prince Edward County in 2007. There, he and Andrew found a vibrant artistic community. Don was very active in the County theatre community and is particularly remembered for his portrayal of Sir in The Dresser. A gifted storyteller with a warm engaging personality. Who can forget his laugh or the twinkle in his eye. Thank you to the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff at KGH, BGH and the PEC Memorial Hospital, whose care for Don was exceptional. A Thanksgiving Service for Don's life will take place at St. Mary Magdalene Anglican Church, in Picton, on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to the PEC Memorial Hospital Foundation would be much appreciated (pecmhf.ca). Online condolences may be shared at www.ainsworthfuneralhome.com. Arrangements in care of Ainsworth Funeral Home, 288 Noxon Avenue, Wellington.