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Jim Watson Obituary
CHAMPAIGN - Richard "Jim" Watson II passed away peacefully at home, after an extended battle with cancer, on Saturday (Aug. 12, 2023).
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Aug. 19 at Owens Funeral Home, 101 N. Elm St., Champaign, with a visitation one hour prior to the service (10 to 11 a.m.). Burial will be in Grandview Memorial Gardens, Champaign.
Jim was born on Sept. 27, 1957, to Richard J. Watson and Edna J. (Shick) Watson, who preceded him in death.
Jim leaves behind two sisters, Ellen S. Watson and Particia J. Watson-Tufte, and his brother, John D. Watson. Jim also leaves behind his nieces and nephews, James DeHaven, Jennifer Tufte, Theresa Tufte, Richard Tufte and Dametri Watson.
After graduating from Central High School, Jim earned degrees in mechanical drafting and automotive repair. He put his automotive degree to use as a crew member for Jeb Allen and Jeb's dragster, "Praying Mantis."
Jim enjoyed listening to the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears games with friends and watching the Svengoolie Creature Feature, especially as he became more homebound. Jim was an avid hobbyist building scale models, including planes, trains and cars, going as far back as the age of 8 and as recent as three months ago. Jim could often be found flying his model planes at the Champaign County R/C Club's airfield. Jim was always willing to share his love of flying and show his R/C airplanes with anyone who stopped after driving by and seeing his amazing planes.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Champaign County Radio Control Club or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Condolences may be offered at owensfuneralhomes.com.
Memories and Condolences
for Jim Watson
Ron Parker (Faulkner)
August 16, 2023
Ron Parker (Faulkner)
August 16, 2023
Ron Parker (Faulkner)
August 16, 2023
Ron Parker (Faulkner)
August 16, 2023
Ron Parker (Faulkner)
August 16, 2023
Thanks for the great memories Jim, like back in the old neighborhood watching you race your home made rocket cars down Lynnwood, riding bicycles and of course you were always doing a non stop wheelie, or racing our slot cars on the weekend. So happy we reconnected for the 40th High School reunion (Pics attached) I will miss the laughs and your witty sense of humor. RIP my friend.
Kay Smith
August 16, 2023
I'm so sorry for your loss. Please know you will all be in our thoughts.
Sincerely,
Ray & Kay Smith
Mike D
August 16, 2023
Worked with Jim decades ago, nicest guy you could meet. Remember walking into his apt. and being blown away by the models, man he loved that stuff :)
Theresa Blatner
August 15, 2023
My best memories of Jim are from a slot car track in Champaign. He loved going there to race his cars!!! Lots of great times at the family resort in Northern Wisconsin as well. Rest easy cousin.
Raymond Logan
August 15, 2023
My deepest condolences , Jim was A good friend & school mate , we had A lot of fun & and eventful times going to school, Indianapolis , really saddens my heart hearing about he´s passing , I´ve been meaning to get up there to see him , Jim was a kind man & funny , had A lot of laughs together, this man will be surely missed , hey brother, have a Schlitz on us up there ,
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Funeral services provided by:
Owens Funeral Home - Champaign101 North Elm Street, Champaign, IL 61820
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