Richard Allin Watson

Dick was born in Mexia, Texas, and raised in Hobbs, New Mexico. He studied at Texas A&M College, then left to enlist in the Navy during WWII, serving as communications officer, and achieving the rank of Ensign. After the war, he returned to school and graduated from The Rice Institute (now Rice University).

He enjoyed a 41-year career at Rowan Drilling Co., rising from roughneck to Vice President of Engineering. Under his direction, Rowan designed and deployed oil rigs in locations as varied as the Gulf of Mexico, the North Slope of Alaska, and the North Sea.

Dick had many interests. He was a private pilot, and enjoyed sailing, gardening, skiing, and astronomy. He also enjoyed machine work, and built several working model steam engines. He had a kind spirit and witty sense of humor and will be missed by all.

Dick is preceded in death by his parents Grace and Johnny Watson. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 63 years, Ann Watson; children Rick, Philip, and Jeff and wife Donna; greatly loved grandchildren Nicole, Whitney, Jonathan, Bailee; sisters Shirley Rodman and Winifred Boone.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 11, 2013 at St. Luke's on the Lake Episcopal Church, 5600 RR 620N, Austin, Texas 78732.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to M.D. Anderson Cancer Hospital, 1515 Holcomb Blvd., Houston, TX 77030.