At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame with us.
Albert Schweitzer
Obituary
Rather than chronicle what I did, I believe my life was blessed by colleagues, friends, and above all, family who enabled me to accomplish what I was in fact able to achieve in my lifetime.
I was born in Plymouth, England on May 24, 1934, to Ernest Watson and Francis Watson — the most wonderful parents one could have imagined. I am survived by my loving wife Jenifer of 60 plus years, sons Philip (Dr. Krista) and David (Lissen, B.A. RN), and grandchildren Nate and Kate, all of whom I am extremely proud. My late brother Stephen’s widow, Anne and son David reside in the U.K. with whom I have regular contact.
My early education was at boarding schools in the U.K., which were tightly disciplined. My medical education took me to London, U.K. culminating after graduating to 4 years post-graduate study at Barts, which included anaesthesia and research.
Like many colleagues, I made the decision to emigrate to Canada following several unpleasant incidents in operating rooms, not I might add of my making! Thanks to Gail and Dr. Rod Fraser of Chester who found me a practice in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia.
There I enjoyed a wonderful professional life after landing from the U.K. In 1968 with my wife and two small children. My patients were a wonderful group (particularly as this was before MSI came into being), extremely kind, understanding and extraordinarily loyal to the practice. My secretaries and nurses, namely Sylvia, Elaine, Dianne, and Judy were the salt of the earth, and I cannot write too highly of them. Thank you all.
Working at the Fisherman's Memorial Hospital was also a real treat, and where my colleagues were first-rate. Humour abounded both in and out of the operating room, particularly when working with Dr. David Douse, an extremely talented surgeon, but who always knew when to say “no,” or “not for me to undertake.”
Leaving my practice and the Fisherman's Memorial Hospital was very emotional, when I undertook a position as Medical Consultant to what was then MMC, now MSI. I was again blessed with the finest secretaries with whom one could wish to work — initially with Nancy Chandler, and on my numerous returns to MSI with Catherine Nieforth.
Following compulsory retirement from MMC at 65, I worked as a medical consultant for the governments of Prince Edward Island, Northwest Territories, and occasionally New Brunswick. At 75, I was recalled to MSI on a couple of occasions, which again I thoroughly enjoyed. Working with Harold and David and Kevin (deputy) at the Dept. of Health was a real joy. Once again, I was blessed with the finest assistance one could wish for in P.E.I., New Brunswick and the NWT. I must also thank the many medical and surgical colleagues in the three provinces who without fail assisted me when I was out of my depth.
During life, I was unfortunately dogged with back and joint problems. I cannot speak highly enough of the many members of the Dept. of Orthopaedics who invariably came to my rescue implanting titanium here and there to keep me going, as well as Dr. Tom Marrie who saw me through a severe infection lasting 8 months in hospital, undoubtedly saving my life. Thus, I owe a great deal to Dr. David Alexander, Dr. Mic. Dunbar, and Dr. Bill Oxner and their staff from the Dept. of Orthopaedics.
As with all major surgeries, pain control is a necessity. Fortunately, my morphine use after three years and multiple surgeries was slowly corrected, at my request, by Capt. Mary MacKenna, a pharmacist who supervised my withdrawal. Thank you, Capt.!
Sadness however was never far away, whether with 5-year-old patients whom I knew would never survive their diagnosis, or in the untimely deaths of my friends Judy Hill, Dr. Reg Yabsley, and more recently Dr. Bernie Badley (whom I knew from Bart’s), all outstanding in their respective fields of nursing and medicine. I was pleased to have some input into scholarship funds related to Judy and Reg. Similarly, I would like to think my time with the VON Lunenburg County as one of the original members, followed by 5 years as secretary, has borne fruit over the years.
Friends and colleagues who enjoyed wood turning as much as I — Don, Zalman, Dr. Steve Morris, Charles Nieforth and Dr Allen Bishop played a great part in my much-enjoyed retirement years. I am extremely grateful to Krissinda Knickle, “my” nurse practitioner who cared for me over many years.
In August 2021, I met with Dr. Mark Walsh — what a delightful colleague! Unfortunately, he had to tell me I have cancer of the pancreas, and a limited time remaining.
Please don't grieve on my passing. I had a wonderful, long life, surrounded by a loving family and many friends. I have bequeathed my body to Dalhousie University Dept. of Anatomy. If you so desire, please consider contributing to any of the scholarship funds noted below. I know there are MANY I have missed mentioning for which I apologize, particularly those who will have cared for me in my final months. Thank you.
Dr. Reginald Yabsley Award in Orthopaedics.
Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation,
5743 University Avenue Suite 98
P.O. Box 15000
Halifax N.S.
B3H 4R2
Judy Hill Fund Scholarship Fund
135 Michael Cowpland Dr.
Suite 105
Kanata ON
K2M 2E9
Dr. Bernie Badley Scholarship Fund
QEII Foundation,
5657 Spring Garden Road
Park Lane Box 231
Halifax B3J 3R4.
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“A life well-lived is a precious gift.”
Esther Ernst-Pike
I was so very saddened to learn of his passing. By his measure, he lived a good life. He was a marvellous indivdual that left indelible footprints.
I had worked with Andrew at Maritime Medical Care Inc. and later, at the NS Dept. of Health.
I have wonderful memories of Andrew, his warm smile and welcoming demeanor and interest in all. He provided me with support during my Mom's cancer diagnosis and always asked after her.
He was truly one of the good ones and will be missed.
Fly with the angels Andrew - you've earned your wings.
He will be fondly remembered.,
The Statton Family
He was a special person with whom to work.. He treated us Staff as partners and was always cheerful.
You could always count on him to put his patients first and to make them feel comfortable.
Sympathy and prayers to his family. Hold on to all the special memories.
Roxie
I have and cherish one of Andrew’s wooden bowls that he turned for my dad, Lloyd Langille, when they were next door neighbors. I know dad thought highly of the entire family, including Timmy the cat who was a regular visitor with his own cat, Squeaky. I remember Andrew’s gentle nature and sense of humour combined with a twinkle in his eye.
May you rest easy.
When he told me at age 29 that my smoking would be the cause of my demise at an early age I had no reason to doubt him
I was a very short time taking his advice
Dr Watson is very likely tge reason that 43 years later I am still here
My storey is not unique there are likely thousand who could say the same thing
Yes it was a wonderful life that benefitted many
He was a huge support to our family many years ago. His kindness was not forgotten.
You are all in our thoughts.
Paul and Sheila Barkhouse
We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Andrew. We can only imagine the heartache you are feeling right now. Losing someone so central to your lives is never easy, and our hearts goes out to all of you during this incredibly difficult time.
Andrew was a remarkable man within our community, and his memory will live on in the stories, laughter, and love you all shared. Please know that you have our deepest sympathy and that we are here for you in any way you might need—whether it’s a shoulder to lean on, someone to talk to, or simply a friend to sit with in silence.
Wishing you strength and comfort in the days ahead. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
With heartfelt condolences
Kevin and Jennifer Veinot
He will be missed.
Rest in Peace Dr Watson, you are finally pain free💕
Condolences to his family and friends.
My Condolences go out to Mrs. Watson; Philip;David and family.
Rest in Peace Doctor Watson
I have so much gratitude for Dr. Watson. He was not just a doctor, he was a friend and he was one of the most caring physicians I have known. RIP Dr. Andrew Watson.
Hugs to his family and friends.
Anna-Marie (Adams) and Carl Hyson
Gayle & Blair Crooks
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