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Eugene Watts Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Eugene Watts
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Janice Weaver Cronin
October 9, 2013
I haven't seen Gene in many years, but always knew he was out there somewhere. Now I know he is gone from this life and it makes me sad. We were friends in the early 60s'- his formative years - and I casually followed his career over the years. I offer my sincere sympathy to Gene's family. I knew him when and am very proud to have been a part of his early years.
carrie
November 11, 2011
It is amazing how long you have been gone from this earth ( in physical form) but are still a bright flame that flickers each and every Vet's Day. I'll bet you planned to leave on Vet's Day so we would always have you come to mind...well, it worked! RIP
Bob & Donna Tait
November 16, 2008
Cindy: As either John or Carrie hopefully told you, we've been out of town and just returned. We were so sorry to learn of your loss. The expressions here and the hundreds that you've surely received in the past several days are a testament to Gene the person, and hopefully the memories of the years you shared will sustain you in the coming days.
Pete Webster
November 16, 2008
Julia
Our daughter Shevaun was your baby sitter when we helped your dad run his first senate campaign. My law office served as campaign HQ in those early day of the first campaign. What a thrill it was to have all those other vets rally to his support. Time has pased and we have all moved on, but I was very happy to stay in touch with Gene and very saddened by his passing. Only a week ago he wrote to me telling me of his pending hunting trip. I know how much he was looking forward to going. We have lost a true friend.
Carrie Tait- Ballard
November 16, 2008
I remember when my mother called to tell me she had just been asked out by " Mean Gene Watts"! She told me of the night they met and how he asked her for her phone number. Just as stubborn as Gene, she told him to look her up in the phone book if he wanted to ask her out on a date. Of course, when Gene wanted something he would go after it. And so their love story began.
Many have spoken about Gene's careers, dynamic (and sometimes brash) opinions; yet there was a soft side to him as well. I remember the call my mother made to me on an evening after Gene came home from a hunting trip. She told me he rescued a cat! No one ever took Gene to be a cat lover so this was a shock to us all. My mother was used to Gene going hunting to bring things home to eat and not to pet!
My mother named the cat Gabby and Gene always called her "stupid cat". He didn't want anyone to know what a softy he was, be we knew it and so did the cat.
So from the Tait family and "stupid cat" , thank you Gene for being part of our lives.
Susan Foley
November 15, 2008
It was truly my honor to know and spend the 2 days with the Watt's family as Gene moved on to the next phase of his life. Gene touched so many people in so many different ways. The out pouring of love and respect shown the past few days has been most comforting. Gene, the "Yo Yo's" as you affectionaley dubbed us ,Cindy's group of girlfriends, will miss you.
Susan Foley
Pat Smith
November 15, 2008
Cynthia,
I was unable to stay after the service this morning and I did want to share with you how much I appreciated working with Gene on educational issues. When I served as President of the State Board of Education, I could always go to Gene and get the necessary support for substantial reform measures. Two issues especially stand out. He was instrumental in passing the 9th -grade proficiency test which was the beginning of academic accountability for Ohio. He also was willing to take on changing the Board from an elected to an appointed one. He possessed not only the know-how but also the tenacity to get legislation passed. I have remarked to many people what an effective legislator he was. The "man in the arena" quotation today was so appropriate.
Please know that you and your family have my deepest sympathy.
Pat Smith
Marion Meeks
November 14, 2008
Gene was one of the finest men I knew. I met him through my husband many years ago. He was a fighter for the causes he believed in and a proud Vietnam Veteran. My family even wore the bright orange t-shirts in many a parade with him. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
David Ellison
November 14, 2008
I was extremely saddened to hear of Gene's passing. Even though we had been apart from each other for a while, I still considered him a great friend. We had many good years together prior to my relocating to Phoenix. Last time I saw Gene was at Dave Aldstadt's memorial and the first thing we did was bawl our eyes out in each other's arms. Now we don't have Gene to lean on and have lost another great leader for Veteran's rights. He was probably the most intelligent person and natural public speaker I knew, and his dynamic leadership during the formative years of the Vietnam Veterans service organizations was invaluable to the cause. He was dedicated and passionate toward whatever cause he believed in. As a personal friend, he selflessly helped me through a difficult time in my life and I will never forget him. He has certainly earned his place in Heaven!
Thomas J. Ratcliff
November 14, 2008
Dear Cynthia:
I was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of my dear friend and a true soldier-statesman, Eugene J. Watts. Your husband indefatigably devoted his life to community and country. His career of selfless service was recognized, honored and celebrated upon his induction into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame in 2003.
Dr. Watts was considered as “Mr. Veteran” in the Ohio Senate during his tenure for myriad reasons: by his soldierly comportment; by his steadfast desire to assist the military and veterans communities of Ohio; and by his ever-present recognition that to honor those who have served our nation in uniform is to honor the notion that “Freedom truly is not free.” This led him to become a driving force behind the Ohio Veterans Plaza being built on the grounds of the Statehouse in 1998, a place where countless ceremonies, tributes, and veterans honors have been presented every year since.
After fighting in Vietnam, Gene always fought for what he felt was right in the Statehouse and sought to enlighten the sons and daughters of America in the classroom during his tenure at the Ohio State University. Throughout each phase of his life, he touched many veterans and civilians alike—each of whom should seek to venerate and emulate his example of civic leadership, duty and responsibility.
In supporting countless elected officeholders and serving in the veterans leadership for Senator Bob Dole, President George W. Bush and Senator John McCain among others, Gene cared most about our men and women currently in harm’s way; maintaining and maximizing the readiness levels of Ohio’s military units and installations; promoting veteran job placement in local, state, and federal government; and ensuring accessible and affordable health care for our nation’s veterans.
Gene never viewed those who have worn the uniform through the traditional prism of Democrat, Republican or Independent. Simply put, when each of us raised our right hand to protect and defend the Constitution of these United States and served our country thereafter, we did not ask the man or woman to our right or left what their party affiliation was. Gene always powerfully understood that what mattered most then and now was a shared and unwavering commitment to our nation.
Dr./Senator/Captain Watts—you fought the good fight, you kept the faith, you finished the race. May it be said “well done, good and faithful servant.” Be thou at peace.
You will be deeply missed.
With abiding respect,
-
Don Ball
November 14, 2008
Cindy,
I was sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you in this time of sadness.
Kristen Delay (Meeks)
November 14, 2008
Gene was a dear friend of my dad's and I was honored to know him. He was a great man and will be deeply missed. I marched in many parades during Gene's time in the Senate and have wonderful memories from those years. He attended a surprise birthday party for my dad the weekend before his passing and I am so glad that we all got to spend one last time with him and his wonderful spirit! You are in my thoughts!
Kevin Ryan
November 14, 2008
Mackenzie, Eugene's daughter, was a special and favored student of mine. I always enjoyed her inquisitive, thoughtful, respectful and gracious demeanor in and outside of the classroom. I never knew of nor suspected her out- and upstanding lineage. Now I understand the "history" of her character. Additionally, I often sensed that we held somewhat different political/world views; and now I understand that too! Mackenzie's fine character is a true gift and reflection of what was surely a tremendous father. My sincere condolences and prayers are with MacKenzie and the family.
Terry and Bill Morley
November 14, 2008
Dear Julia and Christopher,
Our hearts are with you during this great time of grief. A sudden loss is very painful but your father lived a full life of service of which you should be very proud. God bless his soul and you and your family.
Terry, Bill, Jackie, Christie Morley
Heather Jenney
November 13, 2008
To the family of Gene Watts,
I am so sorry to hear of Gene's passing. I actually took care of his daughter, Mackenzie, when she was an infant at Children First Childcare Center. He was a very unique character. Ohio will miss him deeply.
Carol Pierce Mix
November 13, 2008
Gene was a person who was always energetic and full of life. His zest for pushing the envelop in politics was consistent on the issues he held dear. I worked with the Senator on education issues and we may not have agreed on some issues, I always knew that his commitment was sincere. My sympathy to his family for their loss.
Gary Chetwood
November 13, 2008
Gene, we may have disagreed on a few political issues, however when it came to the welfare of the veteran we were always in perfect harmony. Rest well "Mr. Veteran," you will be missed.
Thomas McCash
November 13, 2008
Cynthia,
Vicki & I returned from being out of town to hear the news that Gene had passed away. By his example, he taught me to stand up for what you believe is right, be passionate in your convictions and put the common good before personal endeavours.
His service to country, the State of Ohio and his conviction to ensure those that served and those that gave the ultimate sacrtifice sacrifice were recognized and remembered speaks volumes about his character.
He will be sorely missed by all who have had the opportunity to know him and the privledge to work with him. I consider it an honor to have been his Councilman here in Dublin. We are here for you if you need anything.
Father Robert Christian Kelley
November 13, 2008
I was in disbelief when I heard on the radio Gene has passed away. I keep thinking what a great loss it is when such good men leave us relatively young. Gene and I had many conversations in public places when I was Rector of Christ Church Anglican and Vicar of Victorian Village. No matter where our paths crossed, he always recognized me and stopped to talk. One time I offered the Invocation for an opening session of the Ohio legislature. Gene was very cordial and welcoming on that occasion. I deeply regret he is gone from this world; yet, I know he is in the Intermediate State awaiting the loving arms of Jesus on that great day when we shall all rejoice. May he rest in peace, and may God's light perpetual shine on him and grant him rest eternal.
Gary Rountree
November 13, 2008
I was lucky to meet Gene back in the early 90's while working for Mayor Lashutka. He never forgot a first name and always had a story to tell. I always thought Gene as a good friend the last 15 years and he will be sincerely missed.
Arnett Howard
November 13, 2008
Gene, you were one of the most enthusiastic people that I have ever met. Even though we didn't share political pursuasion, we did share love for life and our people here in Central Ohio. Love is above politics.
My next New Orleans Second Line Parade will be in your honor.
Your pal,
Ann Mills Griffiths
November 13, 2008
Please accept our sincere condolences and appreciation for Gene, including his service to our country, to our nation's veterans, including America's POW/MIAs, and to the people of Ohio. He will be sorely missed.
Harland Hale
November 13, 2008
One of the best public speakers I have ever heard. Gene was a true friend! I will miss his wisdom and friendship. Judge Harland Hale
Stephanie Campbell
November 13, 2008
Cindy, Scott told me about your loss. I am so sorry. My thoughts are with you.
Stephanie Campbell
Robert Funk
November 13, 2008
The Veterans of Ohio will miss you.
Scott Campbell
November 13, 2008
Cindy, I was very saddened to learn of Gene's passing. I know how much he meant to you and how much you looked forward to spending your life with him. I didn't know Gene personally, but several of my colleagues at Battelle did; they were very impressed with his intelligence and the many wonderful accomplishments he achieved as a senator. Please accept my, Griselda's, Antonia's, Stephanie's and Andre's condolences, and don't hesitate to call us if you need anything.
Rich Queen
November 13, 2008
Gene visited our community many times, during his Senator years. He joined us at Wesley Chapel for Memorial Day services; on Independence Day for parades; on Veterans Day for parades and services.
On behalf of the members of American Legion Post and Unit 614, Hilliard, OH, we share our Deepest Sympathy and mourn the loss of a friend.
Tim Curtin
November 13, 2008
Few in elected office ever deserved the title of "The Honorable" more than did Senator Gene Watts. In the State Senate, he was a champion for the people of Ohio and an advocate and friend for our veterans. How fitting it is that God would call him home on Veterans Day.
May God bless and comfort his family and friends in the difficult days and weeks ahead.
Stanley Weigman
November 13, 2008
God Bless you for the many things you did for others.
Eric Blackburn
November 13, 2008
Cynthia,
My deepest sympathies at your loss. It's been a while since we worked together, but my thoughts and prayers are with you. You should be very proud of Gene's service and dedication to family, friends and country.
SGT Joshua Barhorst
November 13, 2008
May God Bless you and be with you as you continue your journey. Thank you for your service.
Melissa J. Cohan
November 13, 2008
I'm so sorry to hear that Gene has passed. One of my favorite memories was one of his visits with us at the Armed Forces Community Relations Council (AFCRC) meeting. We were discussing veterans we would like to honor for their service to the community, and I said that I would like to invite John H. McConnell to have lunch with us. Gene said, oh no Spooky (my nickname), he's too busy, you'll never get him here. I'll make you a bet, if you can get him here, I'll help you become a Senator one day...LOL. Well, it was at our October 2005 or 2006 meeting, and guess who showed up for lunch, Mr. Mac!! Gene was shocked, and said Spooky, I'm impressed. You did good! Gene had a wonderful sense of humor, and his dedication to the veterans and other causes will be greatly missed. God Bless
bob ney
November 13, 2008
To the Family of Gene Watts
I was saddened to learn of the passing of Gene. I would not know where to begin to list the amount of times I saw Gene passionately speak and act for causes in which he believed. Serving in the Ohio Senate with him was a learning experience, not only from his expertise on issues, but also from his wit and wonderful sense of humor.
When I learned that he had passed on Veteran's Day, I thought about how he would have found that to be fitting. Whenever I thought of Gene, the first thing that came to my mind was Veterans.
He was a friend throughout all, good and bad times. That is what he was when it came to me and in some of my toughest times, he picked up the phone, and having coffee with him made me realize all over, just how good a person he was.
Senator Watts did many good things for people that may not know his name, but will benefit from his service. God Bless.
Bob Ney and Family
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