Val Watson

Val Lorn Watson
Age 65, of Stillwater, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2015 after a short, but aggressive diagnosis of brain cancer.

The funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2015 at The Episcopal Church of the Ascension at 214 North Third Street in Stillwater. Reverend Buff Grace will officiate. Burial will follow the funeral at Oakland Cemetery in Marine on St. Croix. Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2015 at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center at 2800 Curve Crest Blvd in Stillwater.

Val is preceded in death by his wife of 37 years, Corrine Watson. He is survived by daughter Carly (Ed) Kohler; son, Val Luke (Georganne) Watson; son, Quinn (Kristin) Watson; son, Jake (Wendy Tavera) Watson; grandchildren Sasha Kohler, Declan Watson and Katy Kohler; brother, Patrick Watson; and sister, Peggy Watson Tilleard.

Val was born on March 11, 1950 and raised in Hibbing, Minnesota. He graduated from Hibbing High School in 1968 and North Hennepin Technical College thereafter. Val worked full-time as a proud Union Carpenter for decades, and then joined the Lakes & Planes Regional Council of Carpenters and served as a Business Agent, and later, President. Val was a passionate advocate for providing a living wage and benefits for the working middle class.

Val was an active outdoorsman and an avid hunter, accompanied by his bird dog, Bizzy. He enjoyed exploring nature, listening to music, and was always busy with house projects for himself and his children. He was also an animated story teller and had a generous heart in helping and giving to others. Val is loved by family and friends from his many walks of life and he will be deeply missed.