Bev Watson

Bev Watson was born in Springfield on April 12, 1914, and died March 29, 2008, following a lengthy illness. He was a graduate of Springfield Senior High (now Central), and studied art at Springfield Teachers' College (now Missouri State). Bev served with the U. S. Army in Europe in World War II, and while stationed in Nuremberg, Germany, met his wife-to-be, Ilse, then an interpreter for the Allied Occupation Authority. Following his discharge, Bev became a radio announcer and hosted a TV variety show known as "Watson's Watch" that ran for several years on KTTS-TV (now KOLR). His love for music led to his mammoth collection of popular recordings, some dating back to the 1920s. One of the largest such collections in the Ozarks. Another aspect of his commitment to music came in the years when Bev sang with orchestras in New Orleans, St. Louis, and even in Paris when he was stationed in Europe. His love for the theater led to his activity in Springfield Little Theater productions, and he served as president of that group in the late 1950s. In later years, Bev will be remembered by many as a successful seller of mutual funds. As a devout Catholic, Bev attended mass daily until his health failed, and always saw to it that a blessing preceded every meal, even a snack. His devotion to his faith was equalled by a steadfast belief in the basic goodness of all peoples, with no regard to race, religion or economic status. He generously contributed to all who asked for help. The death of Bev's wife, Ilse, came just six and a half weeks before his own. Also preceding him in death were his parents, Baxter and Katherine Watson; and a sister, Catherine Koeneman. Surviving are his sisters, Martha Reding of Fort Worth, Texas and Ginger Gover and Marnie Watson of Springfield, Mo. A memorial mass will be held in the chapel at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 3, Msgr. Thomas Reidy celebrating. Online condolences can be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.