Standardbred owner Michael James Watson, age 73, of Mooretown, Ont., passed away on Thursday, April 17 at Bluewater Health, Sarnia.

Mike was a retiree of Dupont and an avid horseman who felt blessed to have had millionaire pacer D M Dilinger.

Beloved husband of Jeanette (Grant) for 52 years. Dear father of Suzanne (Paul) Robertini, Derek Watson, Darrin Watson and Rhonda (Hank) Snow. Cherished Papa of Dillon Watson of Grand Prairie, Alberta, Alayna Watson of Niagara-on-the-Lake and Brandon Morley of Grand Prairie, Alberta. Dear brother of Karen (Phil) Ells, Linda (David) Sangster, Janet (late William) Phillips. Sadly missed by nieces and nephews Natalie, Tiffany, Ronald, Kevin, Melissa and Stella. Survived by his in-laws Lois Dixon, Bob Grant, Darlene Grant and Judy Grant.

Predeceased by his parents Zenas and Stella (Watson) Watson and his brother Richard Watson.

Mike's family would like to thank St. Joseph's Hospice, Dr. Glen Maddison, V.O.N., Bluewater Health Palliative Care and London Regional Cancer Clinic.

The Watson family would like to invite family and friends to a social luncheon on Monday, April 21 at 12:30 p.m. from the Brigden Fair Grounds Exhibition Hall.

Following Mike's wishes, a private family funeral service will take place followed by interment at Bear Creek Cemetery.

Sympathy may be expressed through donations to the St. Joseph's Hospice, V.O.N. or Lambton County Developmental Services. Memories and condolences may be sent online at www.steadmanbrothers.ca. Arrangements entrusted to Steadman Brothers Funeral Chapels, Brigden, 519-864-1193.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Mike Watson.