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Brian Watson Obituary
Age 80
Brian "Barney" Engle Watson, of Phoenix, AZ passed away unexpectedly in the hospital on February 18, 2023 from pneumonia.
Barney was born on November 22, 1942 in Omaha to his parents, Mitzi Elizabeth Hartman Watson and Max Engle Watson. His wife, Claudia Diane Watson has since passed away on March 15, 2023.
He is survived by his brothers, Kurt (Marilyn) Watson of Houston TX, and Rex (Tana) Watson of Spokane, WA; as well as his nieces, Brooke Siglin, Paige Thompson and Stephanie Watson; and one nephew Chase Brian Watson.
Barney attended Benson High School in Omaha, graduating in 1961, and Doane College in Crete NE, graduating in 1965. He received his Master's Degree from UNO. He married his life-long partner, Claudia May on August 1, 1964. He taught throughout his career at Central High School in Omaha, before retiring and moving to Phoenix.
In 1998 as a life-long member of the American Motorcycle Association, he actively pursued his motorcycle restoration hobby with his close friend, Roger Meinershagen. Barney left behind many who loved him, including his family and countless others from the motorcycle clubs and coffee shops.
In honor of both Barney and Claudia's lives, there will be a MEMORIAL CELEBRATION on April 30, at 1pm at the Chapel Mountain View Room in the Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale, AZ (15656 N Hayden Road). We invite anyone who knew either of them to attend.
Memories and Condolences
for Brian Watson
Sponsored by Best Funeral Services Phoenix North Central Chapel.
Laura Watson
October 29, 2023
In one of my favorite memories growing up was when I went w/my Uncle Dan Holub to Omaha, NB He took just me in his station wagon for a long trip from Anaheim, CA to Omaha. We made many stops along the way. I stayed w/Barney´s family and had a blast. He took me on rides on the dirt roads....,etc. I loved the open air and the hills! I was in High School but not old enough to drive. Barney felt terrible because I burned my calf on his muffler when I got off his motorcycle. He told me he gave me a new birthmark....I loved my memories w/him, Claudia and Barneys Brothers.
RIP
Brenda Harmon Harmon
March 30, 2023
Mr. Watson was a very handsome man/teacher at Omaha Central. So sorry to hear of his passing. RIP Mr. Watson
Elizabeth Nichols Roof
March 30, 2023
Mr. Watson was a favorite teacher to so many of us. He left his mark in the teaching world that will never be forgotten. The highlight I remember most was when his wife surprised him with a new motorcycle for his birthday. She had it brought into their home. He was so delighted with that gift that he talked about it in class. RIP Mr. Watson and Mrs. Watson! Class of 1984
Dennis J Cullen
March 29, 2023
What a great teacher! He was probably my most influential teacher. He helped me learn to love economics. I became an economist. RIP Mr. Watson.
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Carol Watson Cosgrove
March 28, 2023
In loving memory of a great teacher. So kind and dignified. Prayers for family & friends
Gail Campbell Rador
March 27, 2023
I was Mr Watson 's student helper at Omaha Central High. What a great experience! Years later, attending a CHS reunion, my Benson Grad husband Jim recognized "Barney" and Claudia as his classmates!!!
Cindy Sleder Lambert
March 27, 2023
Mr. Watson was a great teacher! Loved his class. We all thought he was so cool. Rest in peace Mr. Watson. Cindy Sleder Lambert CHS `77
Kim Wood
March 26, 2023
One of my favorite teachers. Senior class, American History. May you and Claudia rest in eternal peace. Kimberly Schrat Wood, Central High Class of '75.
Joan Young Welsh
March 26, 2023
My sincere condolences to the family of Barney & Claudia. I have many fond memories of them from their time at Benson High School.
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