Larry J. Watterson
Larry Watterson passed away September 16, 2011. He was born May 23, 1921 in Dodge, North Dakota, the son of Albert and Margaret Watterson. He was raised and graduated from high school in Fairview, MT. He next moved to Dillon, MT where he began his college career at MSNC and played football for a year before enlisting in the Army in 1942. He served in the African Campaign and after WWII resumed his education in Bozeman, MT at MSC where he met his wife, Betty Johnson. They were married on October 15, 1947 and spent 63 wonderful years together. Larry completed his education with a master’s degree in education from the U of M.
Larry and Betty moved to Harlem, MT in 1949 where he began his teaching career as the Vo-AG teacher and started the FFA department. In 1954, he became the Superintendent of Harlem Schools and spent 14 rewarding and memorable years in Harlem before moving his family to Townsend, MT to open a Coast to Coast Store, which he and Betty owned and operated for 9 years. In 1972, they returned to Harlem where Larry was once again Superintendent of schools. After 5 years, they returned to Townsend to take a position with the USDA until his retirement in 1983.
Larry was always school and community minded. He was involved in many projects over the years with the American Legion, VFW and his school activities. He loved his students and teaching colleagues and many have become life-long friends.
Larry and Betty also spent a total of 34 years in Townsend and have many fond memories and dear friends in the area. Larry had many interests including fishing, reading and was a sports fanatic. He enjoyed watching high school track meets, football games, the Yankees, Bobcat and Carroll football and Gonzaga basketball. His last moments were spent watching the Boise State game.
We will miss Him!
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Richard and Pat and his sister Caroline. He is survived by his wife Betty of Helena; daughter, Linda (Slade) Teigen,Ashley, Shae, Stevi and Tucker of Helena; son, Steve (Kimber) Watterson, Keyara of Spokane, WA; sisters, Lucy, Elizabeth, and brother, Con; sister-in-law, Louise; brother-in-law, Kenneth and numerous nieces and nephews.
A service will be scheduled at a later date. Memorial may be sent in Larry’s name to that of donor’s choice. To offer a condolence or share a memory of Larry, please visit: www.retzfuneralhome.com.
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Linda Griffin McNeill says
My sincere condolences to the Watterson family. I attended school in Harlem and Mr Watterson was an iconic figure during my high school years. His job was not always easy but I had a great deal of respect for him as an educator and superintendent. May he RIP and thank you Mr Watterson for the guidance and counseling during those years. Thank you.
Bill Walker says
Dear Betty, Linda, and Steve. I want to say that I really respected Larry and was saddened greatly by his passing. I will always cherish the many memories of Larry and my father at countless ballgames. Please take care and God bless you.
Bill and Karen Barraugh says
Dear Betty, Linda, Steve and family.
We are so very sorry for the loss of Larry. He has been a part of our lives for many years and will be missed by all of us. He was a great friend to my dad especially during dad’s illness. Larry’s kindness will never be forgotten. We have such fond memories of Larry. I will never forget one New Year’s Eve when Larry danced with me. We laughed and had so much fun. Our deepest sympathies are with you. Love and Prayers Karen (Walker) and Bill Barraugh.
Alexa Strzelczyk says
My prayers are with the family of Mr. Watterson. I went to school with Linda and Mr. Watterson had a very special way with kids. He cared and helped me through some tough times in high school. I will never forget that. Alexa Strzelczyk
Sydney Webb says
Dear Betty and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. I remember Larry through my Mom, Anita Hood. She loved telling stories about working at Coast-to-Coast. Her favorite tale to tell was the float trip with Ross down the Missouri. It was hilarious. Hope that you have as many great memories to comfort you.
Sydney Sherwood Webb
Lita buck says
Betty, Linda and Steve
I just heard about Larry and I am so sorry for your loss. I am so glad that he was a wonderful friend of the family. He will be missed.
Sympathies and Prayers,
Lita Clark Buck
Myrna Clark says
Betty, Linda, Steve and families. I am so very sorry you lost your husband, father, grandfather and best friend. This is a very difficult time and I hope the many memories you have of special times spent together will ease a little of your grief & bring a smile to your face.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Myrna and family.
Mike Watterson says
Aunt Betty, Linda and Steve,
I was so sorry to hear of Uncle Larry’s passing. He was such a wonderful person and always showed such interest in each of us. He always asked about all of our children and was always ready to talk sports and or education issues. He will be missed – you are all in our prayers.
Mike and Randi
Marcia Anderson Haake says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Know my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Mr. Waterson was my guide through Harlem High School. I would not have made it without him and his staff.
Caroline Mount Brown says
Mr. Watterson was such a “Professional and Personable Person” I am delighted to have attened Harlem School when he was “our Superintendent.” Mr. Watterson was well respected and loved by all, students, parents, colleagues and community. My condolescence to Mr. Watterson’s loving family.
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