In Celebration of

William Watt

September 30, 1931 -  August 22, 2024

William (“Bill”) Polson Watt passed away peacefully on August 22, 2024, at the age of 92, at North York General Hospital. The family wishes to thank the compassionate and committed staff there who helped make his last days more comfortable.
William was born September 30, 1931, in Toronto. The youngest child of Mary and William Watt, immigrants from Glasgow, Scotland, William was predeceased by sisters Margaret and Jessie, and his brother George. A graduate of Humberside Collegiate, William had a life-long interest in theater and cinema. In addition to his career as an insurance underwriter, William worked as a freelance writer and arts critic for multiple local publications. William was a loyal member of the “Sons of the Desert,” a Laurel and Hardy Appreciation Society, and a staunch member of the Monarchist League of Canada.
He was the beloved father of three daughters with his ex-wife Jean: Heather, Mary (“Sandy”) and Fiona, and cherished father-in-law to their husbands Ray Kirkness, Giuseppe (“Joe”) D’Amata and Kevin Johnson. William was adored by his grandchildren, Scott Kirkness and wife Sarah, Andy Kirkness and wife, Ethel, Colleen Kirkness and Wayne Hayes, and Duncan Johnson and by his great grandchildren, Scott and Sarah’s little ones, Aurora, Bennett and Eleanor. He was godfather to his brother George’s son, Ian Watt, and grandfather figure to Joe’s son Alexander D’Amata Taschereau. William was also the long-time companion of Madeleine Gosselin, who passed away in 2023.
We will all miss his wit, his curiosity about the world, his unique sense of style, and the love that he had for all the sweet things in life.
There will be a celebration of William’s life on Saturday, August 31, at 11:00 am at Turner & Porter Funeral Home (Yorke Chapel), 2357 Bloor St. West, Toronto, ON M6S 1P4.

Guestbook 

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Paula Hargraves (Friend)

Entered August 26, 2024 from Washago

To Fiona, Sandy, Heather and your families,

Our family is so sad to hear of the passing of your father. We have fond memories of his wonderful sense of style. story telling, and love of the theatre, and the great love for his family. May his memory bring you joy and comfort as you celebrate his long life and his accomplishments. He will be missed.

All our love,
Paula, Les, Lauren, Jessica and Nathaniel
xoxo

Tarja Jaatinen (Friend of daughter Fiona)

Entered August 26, 2024 from Kingston

Fiona, I'll be thinking of you and your family on Saturday when you say your final goodbye to your father. With sincere condolences and a virtual hug, Tarja

Jaymz Bee (Friend)

Entered August 27, 2024 from Toronto

I met Bill in the late eighties at a social event. Gino Empry introduced me to him and after that first sighting I bumped into him a couple times a month for well over ten years. His smile, genuine warmth and witty banter ensured he was invited to all the chichi events in Toronto. I hadn't seen him since 2020 but he remained in my thoughts. I was sorry to hear about his passing, but his live was certainly well-lived and anyone who met him is better for it. Rest in peace my friend!

Angela Macri and Family (Friend)

Entered August 28, 2024 from Tamworth

My deepest condolences to all the family. We have wonderful memories as neighbours of Bill and Madeleine on Snowdon Ave. - sitting on their porch listening to Bill's stories, poems and jokes. Always interested in the children, loving ...and forever the charmer! Rest well, Kemosabe. Angela and family.

George Macri (Friend. Prayers to the families ��)

Entered August 28, 2024 from Toronto

A classy, witty, charismatic gentleman.

Photos 

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