Martha Watt

Surrounded by family, Martha Watt died peacefully, on her own terms and with a Drambuie toast, on January 20, 2023 at the age of 71. 

Martha was the strongest woman, and exceptional until the end. It took a rare complication of CLL to end her life, one of the few times anything has succeeded in overtaking her. 

Martha's life was about defying expectations and pushing boundaries. A talented mathematician, she chose to become a computer scientist in the days when few women could see this path as an option, and was the only woman on her team in CSIS. In her retirement, she was the most generous and loving mother and grandmother imaginable. This extended to the broader community as she happily opened her home, and especially her pool, to all the neighbourhood families, and was always ready to share freshly baked treats and new toys. 

We will remember her indomitable spirit and extraordinary resilience from beneath one of the cozy crocheted blankets she so generously made for her loved ones, and every new baby her community welcomed. She also crocheted blankets to donate to charity auctions for her favourite local animal rescue. Her kindness and generosity were matched only by her math and puzzle-loving brain. Her siblings will always remember her as a rock of a big sister, always having their backs and offering loving support, through tough times and good.

Martha was predeceased by her loving husband Michael Gareau and is survived by her three children, Leah Jurkovic (David Clements), Lucas Jurkovic (Laura Blair), Rebecca Jurkovic (Jeffrey Ireson); her three siblings, Laura (Ken) , PaulaLynn, Graham (Denise); grandchildren Rebecca, Benjamin, Jack; and a loving extended family of both Watts and Gareaus. 

Join us at the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Avenue on Saturday, February 11, 2023 between 1-3pm to celebrate Martha. 

Please do NOT send flowers, but instead donate in her honour to her favourite dog rescue Sit With Me or to the incredible team that supported her at the Ottawa General Hospital Foundation.