Allen William Watson

Born in Edmonton and raised in Tofield, Alberta, by Howard and Laurette Watson - Allen is survived by Dianne his loving wife of 59 years, and their three children Angela (John), Jason (Louise), and Ryan (Shelly), his grandchildren Alana, Kristina, Sylvie, and Matthew, his sisters Mary Lynne (Stephen) and Brenda, and his brother Ron; sisters-in-law Arlene, Gloria, Dale, and brothers-in-law Gary and Alex along with many nieces and nephews. Allen was pre-deceased by his sister Margaret Anne and brothers Keith and Lee.

Allen received his Bachelor of Education and Master of Education degrees from the University of Alberta. On graduation, he was one of the earliest employees at the newly founded Grant MacEwan Community College. He served in various roles including Dean of Arts and Vice President of Academic Services in a distinguished 37-year career as the institution evolved into MacEwan University. He proudly retired in April 2008. During his tenure, Al ushered in the first university transfer program in Alberta, giving students in all parts of the province an opportunity to begin pursuing a university degree in their home communities.

While he was most comfortable at the lake with family and friends, Allen's travel adventures included several visits to Nova Scotia with this wife Dianne, extended multi-family camping gatherings in the B.C. interior, a motor home trip throughout western USA, an Alaskan cruise, and multiple vacations to Hawaii, most recently in 2020 with the entire family.

Al's favourite place was the family cabin at Alberta Beach. He would spend many of his days surrounded by friends and family "living the dream" - enjoying days on the lake, good food, great company, and watching the sunset. Al had a love for camping, kicking tires and exploring country backroads with some classic tunes, pondering the workings of the world and sitting with his dogs soaking up life. Al's proud role of Papa to his four grandchildren brought him such joy. He passed on many invaluable lessons, among them the traditions and legacies of the cabin, finding adventure in life, and the importance of education and family. Allen is survived by his current dog Charlie, and fondly remembered his four-legged best pal Sam, who was by his side when he designed and renewed the cabin in 2002.

While he will be dearly missed, Allen's living example of love and dedication to his family will continue to shine on and guide us.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson's Association of Alberta: parkinsonassociation.ca or MacEwan University: [email protected]