Stephen R. Watson, age 65, of Main Twp., died on Saturday, August 24, 2013 in the Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital where he was admitted Thursday. A Columbia County resident for 5 years, he lived most of his life in Girard, Pennsylvania.
Stephen was born on Wednesday, October 29, 1947, a son of Ruth A. (Veiger) Berlin of Girard and the late Julius F. Watson. He was a 1965 graduate of the Rice Avenue Union High School of Girard. Following graduation, Stephen honorably served two consecutive tours in Vietnam with the United States Navy. For his service and sacrifice, he was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart medals.
For over 25 years Stephen was employed as a machinist by Ameridrives International in Erie.
Stephen's greatest joy was spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. He was very proud of his 50% Native American Heritage. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing and camping. He was an accomplished and avid archery hunter. He was past-president of Tri-Boro Bow Hunters, and past-president of the Wednesday Night Bowling League. Also, he was a former coach of the Girard Girls Mod I Softball team.
Surviving in addition to his mother is his wife of 32 years: Rose "Ruth" (Zeigler) Watson, whom he married on February 14, 1981. Also surviving are two sons: Stephen A. Watson of Girard; and Donald N. Watson and wife, Anita, of Warren, OH; daughter: Nicole C. Watson of Leavittsburg, OH; step-children: Timothy Eaton of West Mifflin, PA; David Eaton of Girard; and Kimberlee Highland and husband, Robert, of Buffalo NY; 9 grandchildren; two brothers: David Watson and John Watson; and a sister: Melody Berlin.
Funeral services will be announced at a later date. The Watson family is being assisted by the Allen Funeral Home, Inc., 745 Market at Eighth Street, Bloomsburg.