RONALD (RON) GEOFFREY WATCHORN

Condolences & Memories (8 entries)

• I had the good fortune of meeting Ron six years ago at his lovely home in St. Vital. He had telephoned me as he was in need of a new Foot care nurse. I was not currently accepting new clients, but he, with his Irish lilt and brilliant wit persisted. I knew by the end of our conversation that I HAD to take on this colourful gentleman. For me, that was one of my best life decisions. I will miss his dry humor, fascinating stories and world views. He had a life well lived. Cheers, my friend. - Posted by: Koree Stewart (Friend) on: Jul 08, 2025

• Ron was a long time family friend and I had the opportunity to make one trip to Ireland/Uk with him many years ago and also worked for him as a student when Ron had music man business for weddings and socials. My condolences to his family and many friends....Ron RIP. - Posted by: Don Beavis (Friend) on: Jul 05, 2025

• As Brian mentioned in his comment, we’ve known Ron pretty much since he began working at the Eaton’s Camera Dept. As was also noted, Ron had many passions (cameras, video, music & more). He was a frequent visitor at our Winnipeg home as well as my parents cabin in Kenora, often helping with cabin projects. Several times he was the designated photographer for Dad’s annual Christmas photo. For a time Ron was a music DJ. He hired me for my first experiences as a music man, even doing so at my wedding. I continued that kind of side job for several years. On occasion he loaned me his car and was always the one good to talk to and help with whatever was happening with our family. No one could wish for more in a loyal and good friend. Our family was better for having Ron as a friend. Will miss you Ron. May they give you a good harp where you now call home. - Posted by: Bob Beavis (Friend) on: Jul 05, 2025

• I worked part-time for Ron in the early '70's when he was a manager in the Eaton's Camera Department. This was my first real job and Ron turned out to be a very helpful manager. There was always a reason for doing something a certain way and Ron had it all figured out. Whether it was business process or a camera selection, he would patiently explain it to you. He was always friendly and had a great sense of humour. He was generous to a fault; something that probably made it difficult for him when he opened his own shop. I lost contact with him in the early '80's when I left Winnipeg and only had single, more recent, contact with him. The world is a poorer place now that he is gone. - Posted by: Bruce Macleod (Friend) on: Jul 05, 2025

• Ron was the 4th last remaining 1st cousin of my mother's 80 first cousins. I began to know Ron rather late in life through my interest in genealogy and finally met up with him many years ago on a trip to Winnipeg Canada. I found Ron to be a fascinating man, with a great sense of humour and a hugely varied and multi faceted career path who was living in UK before he ventured to Canada. His vinyl record collection would be the envy of many DJ's. From that trip we built a good friendship with phone calls exchanged every few weeks and had spoken with him just prior to his last hospital visit. I was concerned when I heard his voice being weaker than usual, but had not expected him to pass in a relatively short period of time. I'm sure the passing of his cousin Bill in BC and with whom he had a great friendship would have contributed to his demise. Thank you Ron for the nice friendship, phone calls, chats and your constant good humour. I will miss that. Alan Dublin. - Posted by: Alan Kearon (1st cousin once removed) on: Jul 05, 2025

• Ron arrived at our house when he immigrated to Canada. It has been interesting following his life through these many years. He enjoyed a good life in his new country. - Posted by: Patricia Robertson (cousin) on: Jul 05, 2025

• Ron worked with my father for many years in Eaton's camera department where I met Ron frequently while hounding my Dad after school. My brothers and I grew up knowing Ron as a close friend, almost family, attending our weddings, social gatherings, maintaining contact throughout the years even after we left Winnipeg. Ron was always available to help, tell stories, give advice about photography and cameras. He loved his profession. I talked with Ron on Skype or by telephone, most recently a week or so before his passing. Knowing that his health was not good, I was thinking of returning to Winnipeg this month to visit with Ron, I regret missing that opportunity. I will miss him. R.I.P. - Posted by: Brian Beavis (Friend) on: Jul 05, 2025

• Was going to phone you today, July 5th, as I had not heard from you in a week. I met Ron at a photo course and we became good friends. I will miss your twice a week phone calls buddy. Sorry about your leaving us. - Posted by: Merv Roach (Friend Chilliwack, B.C.) on: Jul 05, 2025