Robert D. Watson

Olean- Robert D. Watson of 1678 Haskell Parkway, Olean, passed away Sunday (January 3, 2021) at the Olean General Hospital.

Born September 13, 1926 in the family home in Kossuth, he was the son of the late Oliver G. and Ellen Tyler Watson. On September 6, 1947 in Oswayo, PA., he married the former Donna M. Perkins, who survives.

Robert attended Olean High School. In 1944, at the age of 18, he enlisted in the United States Navy.  He was honorably discharged in the summer of 1946.  He returned to Olean High School for his senior year, graduating in June 1947.  Robert went on to attend Alfred Ag and Tech college (later named Alfred State) for refrigeration, heating, and cooling. 

His career at Dresser Rand spanned for thirty-eight years, holding several positions there.  He was a member of the Olean First Presbyterian Church for seventy years, serving as a deacon and elder.  Robert enjoyed photography and had a studio for many years.  He was also an avid hunter and enjoyed camping and traveling. He especially enjoyed the family camp in Alma.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by four children; Debra (Salvatore) Oddo, of Elba, Stephanie (Joseph) Hill of Portville, Michael (Carol) Watson of Allegany, and Christopher (Cindy) Watson of Lakewood; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one brother, Steve (Beth) Watson of Olean.

He was predeceased by one granddaughter, Summer Hill.

Private funeral services will be held at the Guenther Funeral Home Inc., 1303 E. State Street, Olean. A celebration of Mr. Watson’s life will be held at a later date.

Memorials if desired may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 2955 N. Bailey Ave #217, Amherst, NY 14226.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.