Alan Watson

May 12, 1941 - July 28, 2023

My dear husband, Alan, passed away after a tough year, diagnosed with early Alzheimer's, tongue cancer, c diff, COVID, hospitalization for a second bout of c diff, and heart rhythm problems. Yet through all of that he kept an upbeat attitude and his wonderful sense of humor. In February he had successful surgery on his tongue, but oral cancers are usually aggressive and by mid-July he began having problems swallowing. A scan showed the cancer had recurred and there was wide-spread metastasis. No further treatment was possible.

Alan was born in the Philippines just prior to the outbreak of World War II; his father was a Scottish businessman stationed in Manila. When the war broke out, Alan, his parents and brother were all interned in a Japanese prisoner of war camp. They were rescued in February 1945 and chose to immigrate to the United States. They settled in Pasadena where Alan grew up and was involved in sports, achieved Eagle Scout rank and according to his mother, excelled in creating general mayhem. He always had a twinkle in his eye and an ability to schmooze that served him well over the years. His profession was in marketing for large commercial insurance companies, and he was well-suited to the job.

Alan had two children he adored:  a son, Colin and a daughter, Wendy. He loved being grandpa to Wendy's two boys. He explored many hobbies over the years, but in 1990 began playing golf and in it found his passion. When he retired, he spent a lot of time playing, but he also enjoyed practicing. He was a true 'range rat'. He loved watching hockey, particularly the Montreal Canadiens and the Washington Capitals. But mostly he was a rabid USC fan.

He was a loving, devoted dog dad to Dash the Wonder Dog. For 20 years, Alan did not want a dog. When he finally relented and we got Dash, Alan became putty in his paws. They created a special bond and Dash turned an indifferent pet owner into a complete sap. Dash truly did wonders for him, especially during his trials this past year.

Next month we would have celebrated 36 years of marriage. Alan made me laugh every day, no matter how irritated we might get over something, we always ended up making each other smile. Rest in peace, my sweet angel Alan.

Suzanne Watson, wife