William “Bill” Watt of Milford passed away peacefully at Kingston General Hospital on March
22, 2026, at the age of 92, after a courageous battle with multiple conditions, including esophageal cancer. Bill approached his medical challenges with the steadfast determination and will that characterized his life. In his last days, he was surrounded by family, which was fitting, as Bill’s greatest legacy is his large, lively clan.

Bill is survived by his former wife, Sheila Watt (94) of Guelph, and his children Fergus (Michèle),
Marjory (Alex), Nancy (Michael), Hilary (Mark), and Heather (Jamie). He was predeceased by his daughter Susan Watt in 2025, whom he loved dearly, and his beloved sister Madgie Sutherland, who passed away from cancer too young. Bill is survived by his sisters Hilda ​MacKessack-Leitch and Margaret Shepherd of Moray, Scotland, and his brother Sandy Watt of Victoria, BC, and many nieces and nephews near and far. He was a proud grandfather to 12 and great-grandfather to 3. His home reflected this pride, its walls filled with cards, hand-drawn pictures, and photographs of them all. In his final months, stories of their lives brought him joy.

Born in Rothes, Morayshire, Scotland, Bill lived a full and adventurous life, the oldest son of William and Marjory Watt. His Scottish roots ran deep, particularly when it came to music, resilience, and holding firmly to his views.

A proud Scot, he returned to Scotland for a few of his later years but subsequently found a great community in the village of Milford, Ontario. When visiting, children and grandchildren would be toured and hear about the “finest people” who lived in Milford. Indeed, Bill described his 90th birthday party with family and hosted by neighbours Gail and Al as “the most meaningful night of
his life.” The Prince Edward County community provided connection, laughter, and when dearly needed – comfort and solace. The support of Anne Noronha, in the final weeks of Bill’s life, was considerable, and appreciated by Bill’s family.

Once described as a “clever and complicated man,” Bill was never complicated to the animals
he tended. He fastidiously cared for Holstein cattle – one year earning six of seven possible dairy production records in Canada and missing the seventh by the smallest margin – and routinely provided his rescue dogs Bonnie and Ivy with “four course” meals, and ample walks in Milford. Whether bringing Del the puppy from Wales to his daughter Heather, or accepting “kisses” from Gail and Al’s Westies, Bill’s love for animals was unconditional, and they loved him back with equal fervour.

Bill cooked with creativity – his healthy morning gruel and homemade bone broth were favourites, and his homemade jams and marmalade, (ie. “Blubarb”) found their way into various homes around the county. He was, by all accounts, impressively thrifty. Bill simply called it “common sense.” If something could be reused, repurposed, repaired, he was the man to do it.

Bill loved dancing, interesting people, and good, spirited political discussion – preferably one in which he had the final word. Stoic, principled, and sometimes obstinate, Bill held his ground with a dry wit that often arrived a beat late and landed perfectly. Beneath the strong opinions and careful budgeting was a man who loved deeply. He showed up, in his own way, and that mattered.

In lieu of flowers, Bill’s family suggests donations to Wheels of Hope (https://cancer.ca –
choose “Wheels of Hope” for donation designation) or your local animal shelter, two causes that reflect both his practicality and his soft spot for those in need. Family and friends are welcome to attend a celebration of life for Bill on May 2, 2026 at the South Marysburgh Town Hall in Milford, Ontario, from 2:00 – 5:00pm.

Bill’s family and friends will forever smile at the memory of him and we are very grateful to all medical practitioners who helped him in later years.