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4 years 11 months
Submitted by masterfunerald… on Sun, 05/08/2022 - 03:36:PM

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brian Edward Watson in Ottawa.  Son of the late Gerald and the late Jacqueline Watson.  He died suddenly on May 4th, 2022, at the age of 63 at the Ottawa Civic Hospital.  He leaves behind his wife of 31 years, Cathy Vautour, and his son, Sean. Loving brother to Brenda and Bruce.  He will be greatly missed by his aunt Pearl and uncle Bob in Nova Scotia, extended family, and many friends.  Born in Kingston, ON while his father was stationed at the military base.  The family moved east to Halifax and then West to British Columbia in Victoria.  He spent some of his teenage years in Comox and then began working for the Coast Guard at the age of 17.  During summers he planted trees in Northern B.C. to pay for his studies at the University of Victoria.  In 1983 he joined the military and began his career in the Navy.  After 2 years on ships, he chose to join the Airforce as an intelligence officer, where he remained until his retirement from the military.  During his stay in Chatham, New Brunswick he met his future spouse, Cathy, who followed him to Winnipeg, Manitoba.  As with many military families they moved regularly, until they ended up in Ottawa where he retired from a 28 year career in the military.  Soon after, he went to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) which proved challenging but enjoyable work for him.  The job brought him to many places all over the world, Vienna most frequently.  He continued to travel with his wife after he retired from the CNSC.  Never one to remain idle, he sought employment in the private sector.

Brian was a principled man who was generous with his time.  His family always came first, and his career second.  Staying busy with his wife and son was a strong priority, whether it be walking together, fishing, or camping. He took care to spend extensive time with his close relations, maintaining the lifelong bonds that sustained him. In his wake he leaves behind an enduring impression of the love he felt for those he held dear.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 13 at 1:00 p.m. in the Sacred Space at Beechwood Cemetery (280 Beechwood Ave.).  The family will receive condolences from 12:00 p.m. until time of the service. Interment will be later.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation www.ottawacancer.ca or a charity of your choice.

 

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Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 05/09/2022 - 08:09:PM

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Peter S.

I had the pleasure of serving with Brian in AF Int. A true gentleman and wise colleague.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 05/09/2022 - 09:53:PM

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Mike Malcolm

Brian was a good friend and a fine officer. Was always ready to mentor junior officers and took good care of his troops. A great loss to his family and friends. :-(

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 05/09/2022 - 10:52:PM

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Lynn McFadden-Davies and Ken Davies

Cathy and Sean,
We are very sad for your loss. Brian was a shining star and an all around super nice person. May your memories be fond and bring warmth to your hearts.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/10/2022 - 07:26:AM

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Elaine Kanasewich

My sincere condolences to Brian's family. He left such an impression with all those he interacted with. His positive, upbeat attitude always turned my mood around, and his generosity of time in both sharing his knowledge and taking the time to speak to you with genuine care was unmatched. He will be missed.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/10/2022 - 08:08:AM

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Dale McKelvey

It is with great sadness to hear of Brian’s passing. I worked with him at the CNSC. My heartfelt condolences to you Cathy and Sean

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/10/2022 - 08:49:AM

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Clare Cattrysse

I am so terribly sorry for your loss. Brian worked on my team at the CNSC in the International Team and we are all so saddened by this news. He was so excited about his retirement and his passing feels so unfair. We will always remember his positive attitude, amazing smile, and his being such a great, genuine, kind and caring person. He loved life and was so proud of his family. Sending hugs out to you Cathy... I am so sorry. Clare

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/10/2022 - 09:33:AM

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Duart Townsend

My sincerest condolences to Cathy and the family and to all of Brian’s extended family, all those of us whom he supported, educated and not infrequently entertained and amused. You will be missed, my friend…Godspeed to you as you slip the surly bonds of Earth.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/10/2022 - 09:55:AM

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Elayne Laakso

So sorry for your loss. Brian was one of a kind, he was very gentle and kind-hearted to everyone. Hi work ethic and knowledge went beyond. He will be missed. Rest in Peace Brian.

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/10/2022 - 10:16:AM

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Alain Clavet

I am in shock to hear of Brian’s passing. I worked with Brian at CNSC. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Al

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/10/2022 - 10:35:AM

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Lisa Smith

I am so sorry for your loss Cathy. May you find comfort and peace. You are in my thoughts.

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