Donald Francis Watson

BAKERSFIELD - Donald F. Watson, age 70, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at his home in Bakersfield.

He was born on March 28, 1955, in Brooklyn, NY to the late John Sr. & Mary (Cairns) Watson.

Raised in the bustling heart of Brooklyn, and the Catskills of the Hudson River, Don carried with him the spirit of New York but found his true home in the serene beauty of Vermont nearly 40 years ago, where he and his beloved wife, Linda, built a life filled with adventure and joy. Their connection to this beautiful state blossomed through memorable ski trips, leading them to settle in an area that would become their cherished oasis. A proud machinist, Don dedicated over 20 years of his career to Husky, where he was known for his strong work ethic and "retirement" discussions.

Don was a man of many passions, most notably his love for the great outdoors. He often fondly referred to his hunting trips as taking his "gun for a walk in the woods," but it was fishing that truly became his passion. Whether deep sea, on a lake, or casting a line in a river, you could find Don at peace, surrounded by nature's beauty.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Watson; sister, Margie Young and her husband Don; brother, John Watson Jr. and his wife Annette; siblings-in-law, Vincent Brumbach and his wife Marianne, Diane Krushinski and her husband Frank, Mark Brumbach and his wife Linda, Dolores Lavagna, and Kevin Ackroyd; his best friend, Dave Young; and several nieces & nephews. In addition to his parents, Don was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Barbara Ackroyd.

Friends & family are invited to Don's life celebration to include visitation from 4-7:00 PM on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at the Goss-Spears Life Celebration Home, 96 Dickinson Avenue, Enosburg Falls, VT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at St. Anthony-St. George Catholic Church, Vermont Rte. 36, East Fairfield, VT. Inurnment will follow at St. Anne's Shrine in Isle La Motte.

For those who wish, contributions in Don's memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com