Obituary of CWO H.C. SHORTY WATKINS CD RETIRED

September 29, 1938 – November 5, 2009 CWO H.C. “Shorty” Watkins CD Retired, beloved father of Michael(Deanna) passed away suddenly on November 5, 2009 near Carstairs, Alberta. Shorty was born in Oshawa Ontario September 29, 1938. He spent his early years living all over southern Ontario. In January 1956 he joined the Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Corps of Signals, as a radio operator. Shorty remained in the military for 35 years, earning his jump wings, and completing two United Nations postings. He received the Queen’s Medal in 1977. In addition to living in Calgary, Shorty and his family were lucky enough to live in West Germany, Trenton, Ontario and Kingston Ontario. He attained the rank of Chief Warrant Officer in 1990 and retired in January of 1991. Shorty always believed in the “fair and firm, but friendly approach to dealing with people, this served him well in the military and out. Shorty was married to his wife Mae for 38 years and was predeceased by Mae in September, 2000. He was predeceased by his mother Florence Skelcher, and father Robert Watkins. Shorty is survived by his son Michael (Deanna) of Airdrie, AB, sister Joyce Meeuwse (Jack) ON.; brothers, Dan Skelcher (Fran) of ON., Bob Skelcher (Debbie) of ON., Randy Skelcher (Bernice) ON.; sisters-in-law, Ruth Taylor and Myrna Furuness and numerous nieces and nephews. Shorty also leaves behind his two little buddies, Ben and Brody, who are now brightening another family members life. Shorty will be remembered for his love of Christmas, his in depth critiques of Blue Jays pitching, his love of animals and the fun he had at Thursday night curling. He will also be remembered as a great father and “father out law”. Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Airdrie Funeral Home (300 Towerlane Drive, Airdrie, Alberta)on Saturday, November 14, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire memorial tributes may be made directly to the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) PO Box 34160, RPO Westbrook, Calgary AB T3C 3W2. In living memory of Shorty Watkins, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek Chapel, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD S.E. Telephone: (403) 256-9575.