WATSON,
Bill R.
(Age 77)

Bill passed away on February 22, 2016 in Spokane. He was born in Spokane on October 11, 1938 to Cecil Watson and Marie (Evans) Watson. Bill lived his entire life in Spokane, serving the community as a teacher and as a musician, while also serving in the military for 24 years.

Bill learned to play the drums at the early age of 10, where he excelled and ended up making it his life's ambition and career. After graduating from North Central High School in 1957, Bill played in bands around the NW and later attended college at Eastern Washington State College where he earned his degree in Education in 1965. His music legacy can be found compliments of MLLP at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRoRi18DcAM

He served in the U.S. Army after high school and later joined the Washington Air National Guard in 1974, where he retired as a Master Sergeant. He was a proud member of the 560th AMFB Band giving him the opportunity to serve his country while performing as music ambassadors for the U.S. Armed Forces. In addition to traveling throughout the U.S. and Canada, he performed with the band all over the world.

Bill became an elementary school teacher, first with Mead School District and then with Spokane District #81 where he taught 5th grade at Hutton Elementary for 28 years. He loved teaching American History where he combined math and art with the curriculum to engage the students. He was also passionate about the after school sports where he taught young kids the basics of fair play, sportsmanship and teamwork. Whether it was basketball or football, he was most proud of the fact that, win or lose, every kid got to play...they usually won!!!

After retiring, he continued to coach youth basketball with the YMCA, again, teaching with passion. Bill also loved to go boating with his kids and grandkids, salmon fishing with his brother and dad, and found pleasure in creating woodcrafts for friends and family.

Bottom Line is that Bill was a giver of his time and talents as an entertainer and educator and will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents Cecil and Marie Watson, grandson Cody Watson and Jazz, the Blue "Healer." He is survived by his children Troy Watson (Tarina) and Todd Watson (Renee); his brother Kelly Watson (Janet); sister Linda Hall (Ed); grandsons: Derek (Maggie), Andrew and Spencer Watson; great-grandsons: Maddox and Hayden Watson; and numerous other relatives and too many friends to mention. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Musicians Legacy and Legends Project c/o 5006 W. Houston, Spokane, WA 99208. A Memorial Service will be held at Heritage Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 2nd, 2016 at 1pm.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Spokesman-Review from Feb. 27 to Mar. 1, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Bill WATSON

46 Entries

Marty Zyskowski

February 27, 2024

Cannot believe Bill passed in 2016 as it seems like he was just with us not very long ago. So miss his humor, intelligence, stories, his terrific performing and, most of all, his warm loving friendship. Still have his word working gift and every time I gaze upon it I think of Bill. One of a kind, genuinely giving and faithful friend. R.I.P.

Virginia Shogren

July 1, 2022

Bill was a fine man and a wonderful teacher. He will be missed.

Martin J Zyskowski

February 21, 2022

Bill's image will often pop into my mind stirring many wonderful memories. The multiple plaques he made for me are also hanging in my drum studio as a constant reminder of his generosity, friendship and love. He will never be forgotten.

Bonnie Baird

February 21, 2019

I'm remembering Bill on this sad 1 year anniversary of his death. I think of him often. I am still enjoying the signs he made for me: "Bonnie's bass", "Oom Pa Pa", and others. Our band still uses the sign he made for us---we put it up several times a week whenever we play music. It is our "Somethin' Special" sign. We display it every time we play. I also enjoyed playing with him in 3 different groups in my lifetime. His playing was sooo "right on". It was fun when he brought his dog, Jazz to our performances and he would do a little howl to "How Much is that Doggie". For a long time Bill and I met for lunch at the Golden Corral once a month just to keep in touch. Anyway, I miss him and he is gone from us way too soon. I am expressing sympathy for his family today.

Martin Zyskowski

February 21, 2019

Hard to imagine that it has been one year since Bill's passing. I still think about his stories, humor sharing, and drum talk either over the phone or at Steve's (Croteau's) Drum Shop. He made for me (and countless others) wood plaques individually designed and personalized. I gift of mutual love and appreciation. A part of Bill lives within all of us as we still try to ponder his physical absence. But his legacy will be part of our memory forever!

Betsy Hopkins

March 26, 2016

Mr. Watson was my fifth grade US History teacher at Hutton Elementary in 1974-75. To this day Bill Watson was one of the best teachers I have had at ANY level of my education. He is one of the primary reasons I developed a love of history. Honestly, I had several instances where I would be sitting in a US History lecture in college and hear things that Bill Watson taught me in fifth grade - amazing! Some of us are born into our professions. Bill Watson was born to teach. RIP Mr. Watson. You will be missed but NEVER forgotten.

March 12, 2016

The Washington State Veterans Cemetery extends our deepest sympathies to the family of Bill R. Watson for your loss. We honor him for the service and sacrifice he made for our nation, he is a true hero.

MSgt Watson playing drums in Australia

Matthew Wilson

March 10, 2016

Glad to have known MSgt Watson. My fondest memory is this picture of him playing with the Dixieland Band in Australia. Bill served the WANG with honor and it was a pleasure for me to be one of his commanders.

Cindy Manor (Sobocinski)

March 8, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Bill Watson. I have so many fond and wonderful memories of 5th grade, especially the "Band" we formed in our classroom. My family also knew Bill and his children and we boated together in Coeur d'Alene. The memories of his influence will last a lifetime.

Dana Cooley Parker

March 6, 2016

My sincerest sympathy to Troy and to Todd and to your families. Your dad was a true gentleman, kind, funny, and just a great all-around guy. I met Bill through the Spokane youth hockey program, as our sons played hockey together. I have so enjoyed reading everyone's memories of how Bill has touched their lives--former students, colleagues, military friends, music connections. So now I know the rest of Bill's story. What a guy!

Joan Morse

March 3, 2016

Bill indeed was a generous man with his music and friendship. Loved to join the band for the senior dance and wait for time for Jazz to bark when it was time while we played "How Much is that Doggie in the Window". He could make those drums "talk". We'll miss you, Bill.

Dick Nye

March 3, 2016

My heartfelt sorrows go out to the families and friends of Bill. He graduated a year ahead of me from North Central High School but we became closer friends when attending Eastern Washington University. If I remember correctly, the two of us would skip out of band class, and we would hear of it later from the band director, to go fishing at one of the lakes south of Cheney. One of my largest trout was caught with him at Diamond Lake north of Spokane. I often visited him when I came to Spokane when he lived above Francis Avenue and again when he lived just below North Hill and in the mobile home court south of the city.
These memories will last forever and we all will miss him.

Dennis Heath

March 2, 2016

You were a good friend and neighbor. Miss ya, RIP

Jeff Hueter

March 2, 2016

First off, I wish to offer my heart felt condolences to the family and friends of Bill. I was fortunate to grow up and play music with Bill's son Troy. I remember Bill at probably every performance, enthusiastically supporting us in our budding music careers. Many fond memories.

Deanna Sylte Lucas

March 2, 2016

As I read Of Bill's life, I am impacted with memories of the time my sis and I were apart of his young years. It was North Central high school...we were freshman and he was a handsome senior. Our dear girlfriend, Dolly Lust...(quite a name, and she was very lovely), was experiencing puppy love about Bill. We enjoyed some good times, the 4 of us, together, after school. There was nothing note worthy, beyond the tender hearted times of young people, relating, growing, learning...in eachother's presence...the fresh Life of youth...together, we walked through those days...young, fresh and free...those words speak of the vital and tender times of the springtime of our lives, when we each were awakening to all possibilities...Bill Watson, Dolly Lust, Deanda Sylte, Deanna Sylte...we bloomed some...in eachother's presence. It makes me smile and sigh...thank you God, for such long ago sweetness...Thank you for Bill Watson.

May your life be a Garden, filled with the Goodness of the Love you lived here, dear Bill...Welcome Home. God's blessings......unending now.

March 1, 2016

I would like to start by acknowledging Mr.Watson as an elite musician, educator and coach and one of a handful of adults outside my own parents who I can honestly trace back as having an integral part in my upbringing., both as a teacher and coach who saw ability in me before I realized it myself. He encouraged us as students and athletes, investing his time in us, in turn helping to shape who I would become as an adult along with many others after moving on from Hutton Elementary.

One of my fondest memories was the chance to play him one on one in checkers for a "Snickers" although the real trophy was not a candy bar but the act of beating him, which was rare. He had the charisma to keep a room full of fifth graders engaged while we learning, resulting in a class that we looked forward to attending.

Just after my senior season playing football at Lewis & Clark, before heading off to college I stopped by Hutton to see if he was still teaching. I found him picking up basketballs in the gym after a game, something I think he enjoyed and had watched him do so many times growing up. We shook hands as he told me he had followed the team that year and was proud of what we had accomplished. I thanked him and let him know I appreciated everything he had taught us growing up. I'm so glad I was able to have that moment with him.

So how does one measure a successful life? Health? Family? Success? Wealth? A mixture of all of the above? Absolutely. But how does someone measure the life long impact of being a positive influence on classes and classes of friends and family, helping to shape, basically everyone you grew up with? You can't measure it...all you can do is tip your cap and say thank you.

- Thank you coach Watson.

Billy Morse II

March 1, 2016

I was lucky enough to have Mr. Watson for 3 years as a coach in track, have him as a teacher, and beat him in checkers numerous times. You cant find teachers like him anymore. I have so many fond memories when we were together. From winning all city track meets, and seeing the excitement written all over his face. To the little smirk he would give when he knew he was going to beat you in checkers. I will definitely remember Mr. Watson forever. RIP

Lori Evans-Gibson

March 1, 2016

Billy was my cousin. He was older than me but I have very fond memories. He was very special. Glad I was able to see him a few weeks ago. Billy you will be missed. Love you. . RIP Cuz.

Francis Dreis

March 1, 2016

Mr Watson was one of the most influential teachers in my life. He taught with passion unlike any others during that time and modern day. He pushed and pushed hard and made you earn your triumphs as they should be earned. He lives in me forever and I'm sure many others! See you on the field coach!
Francis Dreis

Marty Zyskowski

March 1, 2016

Bill Watson was a mentor and inspiration to countless students in Spokane. His high standards, wit, sense of humor, sensitivity and compassion were traits I admired and emulated. Bill's drumming was always tight, appropriate to the style required and demonstrated a musicality and technical control second to none. I will miss him dearly.

My heartfelt condolences to his immediate and extended family. May you rest in peace dear friend.

Jerry Thomas

March 1, 2016

I knew Bill through the 560th Air national Guard Band. I taught beginning band in Bonners Ferry Idaho. Bill came up on his own time hand helped me recruit 5th grade beginning band students by playing drums in a little combo band we put together to play for the students. He was very generous with his time, and gave back in many ways, often quietly and without calling attention to himself.

Stan Burke

March 1, 2016

I had Mr. Watson for 5th grade in 1967, his first year at Hutton. He was calling roll and when he called my name I responded with, "Yo!" He gave me that stern look he had and said," Oh, Smart Alec, huh." He nailed me right off the bat.

Jason Strand

February 29, 2016

Mr. Watson was my 5th grade teacher at Hutton. His drum kit was setup in the classroom. Which to a grade school kid, was cool enough. But when he played, I was blown away. So much so that I started playing drums myself and haven't stopped for over 30 years. All due to him.

Pete La Rowe

February 29, 2016

At Hutton School Bill was a tremendous motivator of young people always encouraging and challenging them to be better. Nicknames for all and always a smile. He will be missed.

Janice AASEBY Solandros

February 28, 2016

I have wonderful memories of our friendship as kids. Piano lessons together, recital duets, (both sharing one bench)
and Bill accompanying our high school trio. But the most precious memories are of our many visits together to see
our ill classmate and neighborhood friend Mary who passed away right after our graduation. I regret not having any contact with Bill these many past years. Rest in peace my friend.

A band of brothers.

Michael Baker

February 28, 2016

Bill was a long-established member of the 560th when I joined in 1987. I have many fond memories of him, his engaging sense of humor and his astounding musicianship. I'll miss you, Bill!

Karen Rivard O'Bryon

February 28, 2016

Mr. Watson was one of my favorite teachers. He made class fun. I too remember the String art ship, math competitions, caricatures, and music. He left a lasting touch on so many 5th graders throughout the years. Hutton was so lucky to have had him.

Robert Fischbach

February 28, 2016

Keep on drumming Bill. I only knew you these last 12 years, but it was a pleasure working gigs with you. A fabulous drummer!! Sure grateful to have known you.

One of my favorite photos of him and all of his grandkids.

Monika Hawkinson

February 28, 2016

Once a father-in-law, always a father-in-law. Bill was the grandfather of my two children, Andrew and Spencer. So glad I got to spend the time I did with him throughout the years, although, it wasn't nearly enough. Thank you for your kindness, love, and off the wall humor.

Marci Auld Glass

February 28, 2016

Rest in peace, Mr Watson. He was my favorite teacher (and I had lots of wonderful teachers at Hutton). I will have a Snickers bar in his memory.

Tracie Thompson

February 28, 2016

I remember Mr. Watson's sense of humor most. He really made his class fun and definately one of my favorites at Hutton. I remember him drawing me a caricature using my head from my class photo. I still have it ! Thankyou for making school fun.

Holly Ehlenfeldt Stockman

February 27, 2016

Mr. Watson was my favorite teacher!!! Such a wonderful man and always made everyone feel special. I loved it when we had "music" day! He would bring in his drums and anyone who played an instrument would jam with him.
He always made learning fun and his classroom was always a great place to be.
Thanks for the memeories, Mr. Watson!!

Pat Williams

February 27, 2016

Bill was one of my few mentors growing up. My fondest memories are him giving me the first A I ever got in grade school, his unique coaching abilities, and of course his outstanding drum playing. My thoughts and prayers go to his family. He will be deeply missed by the hundreds of kids he taught and coached. He was a true inspiration and positive influence in my life as well as many others.

Nancy Pickworth (Williams )

February 27, 2016

Loved him as a teacher at Hutton. He gave me a nickname that sticks with me still today :). RIP

Maggie Watson

February 27, 2016

Bill was a sensational Grandfather-in-law. His love was robust and never ending. I am grateful for all the time we were able to spend together. Memories that will last a lifetime.

Forever in my heart.

WILLIE WILLIAMSON

February 27, 2016

A very good friend and competere, you will be missed, RIP...

Sally Bean

February 27, 2016

I have fond memories teaching with you at Hutton. We had a good group and it was fun. Rest in peace.

Phil McClintock

February 27, 2016

We had a great time in the Boatman quartet!

February 27, 2016

Thank you for your service. Rest In Peace

1978 Bill & Class give to KSPS TV

Bill Stanley

February 27, 2016

A kind and gentle man. Just an outstanding person!

Scott Conley

February 27, 2016

Things I remember from 5th grade. String art ship, him playing the drums in a concert for the whole school, his sense of humor, hockey, fun and important year in my youth. He was a gem.

Terry Evans

February 27, 2016

He was my older cousin, I didn't get to spend a lot of time with him but he was special, he was closer to my dad's age than mine. He was a student teacher when I was in the fifth grade at Emerson grade school, way back when. Love always T.D.E.

Bonnie Baird

February 27, 2016

I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing! He was a good friend. We played in 3 different bands together over the years. He could play any rhythm for any kind of dance perfectly and always kept a strict tempo. But he could change tempo's in the middle of a song if needed, which is rare. That's the way his life was too. Steady, but able to change with circumstances of life. The last few years we had a standing lunch date every few weeks just to "catch up". He was proud of his army service to his country, loved his "kids" in the classroom and on the basketball court. He also spoke often of his family members. I surely will miss Bill as so many of his friends and family will.

Bnnie Baird

February 27, 2016

I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing!
H e was a good friend. We played in three different bands together over the years. H e could play any rhythm for any kind of dance and always kept a strict tempo. But he could change tempos in the middle of a song if it was needed, which is rare. That's the way his life was too. Steady, but able to change with circumstances of life as needed. The last few years we had a standing lunch date every few weeks just to "catch up". He was proud of his army service and his "kids" in elementary school, and spoke often of his family members. I surely will miss Bill, as so many of his friends and family will.

Ann Sveen

February 27, 2016

Mr. Watson was the teacher that I strive to be. He taught me with joy and laughter. He will be sorely missed by so many. He truly touched and changed lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you today.

Megan HINNEN Read

February 27, 2016

Mr. Watson is loved and remembered by SO many Hutton kids. He made learning fun. What a gift he was to our community.

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