WATKINSON, Richard – Richard passed away peacefully on December 9, 2022 at Hastings Manor in Belleville, surrounded by his loved ones. Richard was the beloved husband to Jo-Anne who has been happily married for the past 53 years, and the beloved son of Charles and Verna Watkinson. Predeceased by sisters Raye Ellen and Robin, and grandson Sam. Loving father of Charles (Coralee Purdy) of Ottawa, Matthew (Meghan) of Ottawa, and Lauren (Mike Rontiris) of Ottawa. Grandfather to Sophie, Andrew, Henry, Lucy, and Theodore. Richard was born October 25, 1947 in Port Dover, Ontario. Richard was raised in Port Dover as well, were he became an avid swimmer, a hockey goaltender, and a talented high jumper and pole-vaulter. He later developed a passion for golf, winning several club championships over the years. Richard and Jo-Anne married in 1969 and settled in Port Dover. They moved to Kincardine, Ontario in 1974 and again to Belleville, Ontario in 1992, raising three children along the way. Richard enjoyed a long career at Ontario Hydro and Hydro One where he helped to build the Bruce Nuclear Plant and worked province wide as a surveyor and technician on major power line construction projects.
Arrangements entrusted to JOHN R. BUSH FUNERAL HOME, 80 Highland Ave., Belleville (613-968-5588). Visitation will be held on Friday, December 16th, 2022 from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm and a Funeral Service will follow immediately in the chapel at 3:00 pm. If desired, memorial donations to the Alzheimer's Society would be greatly appreciated by the family. To share memories of Richard and for online condolences, please visit www.rushnellfamilyservices.com