Esther Watson

Esther Watson

September 20, 1926 – February 16, 2021

It’s with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Esther Watson, peacefully on February 16, 2021. Esther was predeceased by her loving husband, Emerson on May 16, 2017. Esther is survived by her 2 daughters, Pauline and Catherine, 4 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Esther was born in Thorne, Yorkshire, England on September 20, 1926. She grew up on the family farm with her parents Catherine and Edwin Sr. . Esther had 2 brothers, John and Edwin Jr. and a sister Lena. In between school and chores there wasn’t much recreation time.

Our mother met Emerson just before the second World War broke out but continued their courtship soon after the war ended. As we all know the country had been severely ravaged during those years but Mom and Dad along with many others thrived on whatever work they could attain. Mom worked at the markets and eventually as a ticket operator on the double decker buses while Emerson continued on as a mechanic.

They married July 30, 1949 in Stainton, Cleveland in Yorkshire England and that’s where they made their home and raised their eldest daughter, Pauline, until the decision to immigrate to Canada in August, 1957.

Esther and Emmy lived in Winnipeg for a few years and decided to move to Selkirk in the early “60s”. Mom worked for Ethel’s Florists, volunteered at the schools and then in 1964 their youngest daughter, Catherine was born.

Esther worked as a Nursing Assistant at the Betel Home for 15 years. She made a lot of friends that she kept in touch with throughout the years.

Mom loved spending time with her “girl” shopping and lunch out along with family barbeques, where she could spend time with her grandchildren, having many sleepovers.

Esther loved Christmas and our dinners were always extra exciting because “Nana” always taped money to the bottom of the plate and the kiddies got to spend it on whatever they wanted, that was the rule!! When they had their Motorhome and we all camped at a site in the states, guess where we all went for ice cream?? The Motorhome as they were the only ones with a freezer. They both enjoyed watching their grandchildren’s hockey and ringette games.

Esther’s hobbies were knitting, crocheting, needlepoint and gardening. She loved to be outside, feeding the birds, working in her flower gardens and sometimes just turning the earth felt good to her.

Mom and Dad travelled to England a few times, the USA several times, Hawaii twice, and out West to BC. They also took our relative from across the Pond on these trips with them.

We would like to thank the staff at the Betel Home in Selkirk for caring for her these last 3 years and a special bouquet to those who cared above and beyond duty. We will be forever grateful. Cremation has taken place and a small family gathering was attended. Thank you to Gilbart Funeral Home.

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