Merlin Donald Watson Sr.

Merlin Donald Watson Sr., passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at his home in Chowchilla, California at the age of 96. He was born in Fairmead, California on November 16, 1927 to Charles and Elsie Watson.

Merlin served in the United States Navy during World War II from 1945 to 1946, and in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953.

He owned and operated a Flying "A" gas station on the corner of Robertson Boulevard and Highway 152, he also worked as a farm equipment mechanic for the local business in Chowchilla for a few years and later retired from Kunkenbecker Tractor Company after 25 years of service.

In Merlin's spare time he enjoyed camping, repairing vehicles for others, curing olives, traveling around the United States, attending Crystal Gayle concerts and spending as much time that he could with his grandchildren and family.

Merlin is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years Lucile (Bennett), his infant daughter Kathleen Watson, his parents Charles and Elsie Watson, and his two brothers Melvin and Marvin Watson.

Merlin is survived by his son Don and Donna Watson of Visalia, California, his daughter Debra Watson of Chowchilla, California, and his son Gary Watson of Montrose, California. He also leaves behind his brother in law and his wife Gene and Catherine Bennett of Visalia, California, and his best friend for the last three years, Bill Armando of Chowchilla, California.

Merlin is also survived by his 8 grandchildren and their spouses, Tiffany (Derick) Clark, Aaron (Leann) Armando, Eric (Shannon) Armando, Suzanne (Daryl) Shinn, Krista (Bryan) Kelly, Karley Carrillo, Lauren Kennedy, and Kayla Watson. His 14 great grandchildren, Kaydence, Blake, Brielle, Kaitlyn, Braxton, Kellen, Ethan, Mehgan, Adam, Ashley, Ryan, Brady, Hudson, Bailey, and to come in August 2024 will be 15th great grandchild Baby Asher.

He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews and other family members.

The Watson family would like to thank Bristol Hospice with a very special "Thank you" to Crystal and Kim for their kind and loving care of our father Merlin in his last days.

A visitation for Merlin will be held Friday, June 14, 2024 at 9:00 - 11:00 am at Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, with graveside services following at 12:00 pm at the Chowchilla District Cemetery, 23359 Road 14 1/2, Chowchilla, California.

Merlin will be missed by his family and friends.

Through this site, we invite you to view and share cherished photos and videos, share fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Watson Family or share the obituary with others via social media and email. Arrangements are under the direction of Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, Lori Whatley, Funeral Arranger and Sierra Calvert, Assistant.