CLINTON – Gerald A. “Bear” Watson passed away April 26, 2024, at home with his family by his side.

He was born in Clinton on March 7, 1939, the son of Myron and Junita (Salisbury) Watson. He attended Clinton High School, graduating in 1957. He enlisted in the U.S Navy and following his graduation, he served a total of six years, most memorably on the aircraft carrier USS Tarawa. He was proud of his military service and the U.S. Flag.

After an honorable discharge, he attended Keene State College, graduating with a B.S. in Industrial Education in 1963. He began his career at Lawrence High School and taught Industrial Arts, retiring as Department Head after 35 years. He impacted many kids during his teaching career, encouraging them with his quiet manner. He was delighted when former students would visit and talk about their careers and families.

He married Ruth Ann Bowen on Sept. 3, 1960, and together they raised four children. During the summers, he spent much of his time doing renovations and carpentry type work, returning each night to the family camp at Unity Pond, where they shared many years of swimming, boating, fishing, sailing, berry picking, water-skiing and always ended the day with a good meal.

For many years, Bear and Ruth sailed on their friends Bill and Julie Alexander’s schooner Timberwind each summer. A wonderful group of teacher friends enjoyed sailing the coast of Maine and creating lasting memories each year.

Bear loved being in the woods. He was particularly fond of Canaan camp, where he and his brother David spent many happy times with their parents and grandparents. In later years, his own kids shared their own memories of hunting, walking in the woods and cutting wood with their dad at Canaan camp.

Bear was a longtime member of the Clinton Lions Club, serving in all positions including King Lion. He was involved in many activities including mechanical pulls, and was proud to be a member of a four-generation Lion family.

There was nothing Bear could not build or repair. He once bought a bushel basket of parts that he built into a snowmobile, Old Yeller. He made Lincoln logs and ice traps as Christmas presents for his kids. Body work, plumbing, electrical work, welding, sheet metal and foundry work, auto repairs, machining, rebuilding a 1964 Ford automobile and his 1952 Ford tractor. He restored a 1929 Ford Model A and loved driving it on the back roads of Maine with family in the rumble seat. You name it, he could do it.

Moosehead Lake held a special place in Bear’s heart. From Lily Bay to Rockwood, he caught many fish and enjoyed many cherished family times. He loved to fish, not catch, and release, but catch and eat, enjoying every bite. In his later years, he loved special times on the boat, trips to Pebble Beach, and time spent on the porch on the Moose River.

After retirement, Ruth and Bear bought a condo in Gulfport, Fla. and became snowbirds. He loved having the children and grandchildren visit. He took them to his favorite places in Florida, including his favorite all-you-can-eat buffets. His condo was the meeting place for his Florida friends, where everyone would come and visit for a spell.

Bear had a special place in his heart for dogs. He loved dogs his entire life, especially Bonkers and his grand-dog, Bo, who was by his side until his final day.

Most of all, Bear loved his family with his entire heart and soul. He loved his wife dearly, he was so proud of his children, he adored his grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren were the icing on the cake of his life.

Bear is predeceased by his parents; and his brother, David.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth; children Michael (Jody) Watson, Mark (Kim) Watson, Matt (LeeAnn) Watson, Melissa (Rod) Parlin; grandchildren Rachel Watson, Katie Medina, Tashia Watson, Hannah Parlin, Taylor Nutting, Hallee Parlin, Brielle Watson, Brandon Watso; great-grandchildren Parker Rose, Avery, Jackson, Molly, and Harriet. He is also survived by many other loving family members and close cherished friends.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, May 19 from 12 to 2 p.m. at Brown Memorial United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 36 Church St., Clinton. A private graveside service will be held immediately following for the family.

Arrangements by Direct Cremation of Maine in Belfast.

The family wishes to thank Gentiva Hospice, especially Janice Scott, who was so compassionate to Bear and to the family during his last days.

In lieu of flowers, please do a kind deed for someone in honor of Bear.

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