John L. Watters

John Lloyd Watters, 94, of Sturgeon Bay passed away at Pine Crest Village on July 9, 2023.   He was born September 13, 1928, in Sturgeon Bay to John and Rosetta (Anderson) Watters.  After attending school in Sturgeon Bay, John moved to Brussels with his family where they owned and operated a tavern at Chaudoir’s Dock.  He later moved back to Sturgeon Bay and took a job at Leathem Smith Shipyard.

In 1946, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for two years.  After his discharge, he returned to Sturgeon Bay and worked for Sawyer Fuel and Supply Company and later at the shipyard.  In 1949, he married the love of his life, Rosemary Miller and together they raised their daughter Nancy.  After getting laid off at the shipyard, John went to work for the Door County Highway Department as a heavy equipment operator.  He retired in 1989.

John’s first wife Rosemary passed away in June of 1975.  In December of 1983, he married Gertrude Walker in Florida where they spent 12 winters.  For years, they enjoyed playing bingo with their many friends at Oneida and the J.C. Club House in Sturgeon Bay.  On March 4, 2016, Gertrude preceded him in death.

Survivors include his daughter Nancy (Reg) Robillard, Brussels; two grandchildren, Kari (Eric) Carper and Jody (Jodi) Robillard; 4 great-grandchildren, Morgan, Cameron, Reece and Reggi; 2 great-great grandchildren; 3 step-children, David (Kristin) Walker, Monica (Steve) Walker, Debbie Walker; step-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Jacqueline Evenson, Yvonne Iwen, and Helga Bobb; special friend Karen Jackels.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife Rosemary; second wife Gertrude; sister Gretna Deschaine; and brothers, Quinton, Marvin, Leo, Russell, James, Roy and Kenneth.

Funeral Services with military honors will be 11:00 am Saturday, July 15, 2023, at Salem Lutheran Church.  The burial will be at Shiloh Moravian Cemetery.  Friends may call after 10:00 a.m. Saturday at the church until the time of service.  Forbes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.  On-line condolences may be offered at forbesfuneralhome.com.

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