I just saw this … after all this time. Bill is legend. Friend Barry Macleod made sure of that. I’ll never forget the tape he sent, he was drumming a wild mystic tune for Macleod — it arrived on the day of Barry’s wake, the sea pounding, wind howling, stars shaking, Bill absolutely breaking it on the drums. I met him briefly in Vancouver when he passed through, studying hypnosis. Kind man. He is a solid figure in the Tugwell Years, Barry’s collected letters. Rare ones, those men.

Bill was an iconic figure of our community on Broadway and will be sadly missed.  He had some great stories that can't be shared on here.  Hope you are in a good place man

This is really difficult for me because Bill's death has left a real vacuum in my life.  Of course I recall the ""walk abouts"" he would do around his drums when playing in a show but I also recall him only using brushes when he played with Don G. in our house. And the chats we would have, the advice he gave (through me to the Jazz Festival)...  All with a wry smile that was both gentle and serious.What a valuable contribution he made to our community!  How better-off we are!

Being a fellow drummer Bill and I never played together.   But. we enjoyed talking jazz and drums and music especially during the jazz festival.   I was really impressed with Bill's playing as he really""got in to"" it and took it seriously in the eighties and nineties .  He will be eyeing the Big Band up there. Peace to you Bill.  Condolence to your family.  Mike Griner

There is now an empty space along Broadway and in our hearts that Bill had occupied for years with his stories and laughter, his tell-it-like-it-is take on things, gigs at Emily's, and drumming. Like many, we will miss our friend Bill.  We are grateful our paths crossed many times for a visit, for so much music, and always a glad to see you greeting and nod, even from behind the drums. Thanks, Bill.  We will remember you along Broadway and keep you in our hearts. Yes, we know you did not like being sentimental in public.Patty and John

I had the pleasure and the privilege of working with Bill in 2010 and 2011, when he played drums in my band Bridges. We played a variety of music, but I knew that Bill was a jazz musician all the way. What a thrill it was when we got to the jazz set of the evening! Bill could captivate the entire room with his passion and feel for this music. Bill, you had such a nice touch on those drums, and were always a true gentleman to work with. I loved to hear you reminisce about your many musical adventures from days gone by, and will always remember the stories and the fine music. Thank you for your generosity in sharing this very special gift with all who knew you. Til we meet again...My sincere condolences to your family and dear friends. Remembering Bill with gratitude and admiration. Sinda Shaw

It was always a pleasure to run into Bill on Broadway. He was a kind and generous soul. He managed to contribute to the positive energy in this neighbourhood and beyond. I enjoyed many a great conversations at his restaurant. People like Bill contribute more to the creative culture than is measurable.

We were so fortunate to have met Bill through his brother, Doug. We loved to sit at Emily's and listen to jazz. We sought out groups Bill played with during the Jazz Festival, just to say Hi and listen to his drumming. Bev, it was so good to reconnect with you when I ran into you at work. I remember that you would make peanut butter sandwiches for our fussy son, whenever we came to Emily's for lunch. We will miss Bill, and not seeing him on his drums at various settings around the city. Take good care of yourselves; Bill would want that,I think.

Bill Watson was the one of the most passionate jazz musicians I have ever met.  His influence upon the Saskatoon jazz scene as a player, as a mentor of young musicians, and as a promoter of live jazz was immense.    Only someone totally devoted to jazz would open a 20-seat restaurant (Emily's) and hire jazz groups to play for diners.   He was one of a kind and will be missed by so many.

What more can one say then what Don has said.  It was always a pleasure not only to listen to the mighty drums but to just sit and talk with Billy.  Thoughts go out to his family and all that will miss him.

I'll miss Bill's passionate playing and his extraordinary view of living. As an old friend I admired Bill's cadre of young admirers who knew that this modern day Renaissance man, lived and played to make his world a better place. So long my comrade...

The music community has lost a true artist and gentleman. I had the great privilege of being a bandmate of Bill's, and hold many memories of magical Bill Watson performances. He was a wonderful mentor.My sincere condolences to the families.

Bill, I am so glad to have known you and been a small part of your life at Emily's restaurant.  You were a man of true integrity.  Will miss you.

OBITUARY

William ""Bill"" George Watson

Passed away on JULY 15, 2014

Mourning Glory Funeral Services

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