Passed away peacefully with family at his side, on March 15, 2026 at the Golden Plough Lodge in Cobourg Ontario. Robert Ernest Watts was born on May 26, 1938 in Kingston, Ontario, to Vernon Watts and Doris Nevin Watts. Bob lived a life defined by dedication to his family, community, and service to others.
Bob was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Evelyn Loft Watts. Also predeceased by his parents Vernon and Doris Watts and siblings Hilda Watts Corey, Douglas Watts and Vera Watts.
Bob was a proud father to three children: Bob Jr. (Deb), Susan (Stan), and Jaime (Patricia). He cherished his role as a grandfather to Melanie (Brian), Vanessa (Shane), Sarah (Jeremy), Heather (Jason), Andrew, Andre, Sophia, Julien and Lisa. His joy only grew with the arrival of great-grandchildren Sammy, Maise, Joseph, Emmett, Nico, Everett, and Ronan. Bob also held a special place in his heart for his many nieces and nephews.
Bob began his career as an auto body technician working at a garage in Shannonville where he met the love of his life, Evelyn, whose father owned an auto body shop on Tyendinaga Reserve. This chance meeting marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership filled with love and devotion. While working at an auto body shop in Belleville, Bob met a retired OPP executive who was so impressed with Bob’s character that he encouraged him to apply to the OPP. He pursued his passion for public service by becoming an officer with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP). His commitment to justice and safety spanned an impressive 30-year career before he retired in 1994. While working for the OPP Bob was determined to grow and improve himself and attended night school at Loyalist College mid-career to earn his Police Services Diploma—a testament to his perseverance and dedication.
A man of many talents and interests, Bob had a green thumb that yielded bountiful harvests for both family and neighbors. Known for his resourcefulness as a handyman who could fix almost anything, he delighted in yard sales—so much so that his family recently discovered no fewer than 13 vacuum cleaners and parts tucked away in the garage! These small quirks were part of what made him so endearing to those who knew him.
Bob’s faith was reflected in his belief in being a good family man and serving others. He was deeply proud of his membership with the Masonic Lodge and the Shriners, organizations that aligned with his values of community service and fellowship. Bob believed deeply in the foundational principle of – do unto others as you would have them do to you.
Bob’s memory will live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness and generosity. Many friends and family members have mentioned Bob and Evelyn’s hospitality and the warm and welcoming feeling in their home.
Above all else, Bob will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family and friends. His kindness and willingness to help others left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation at the MacCoubrey Funeral Home, 30 King St., E., Cobourg on Monday March 30th from 10 – 11 am. followed by a service at 11 am. Interment in Cobourg Union Cemetery.
May Bob’s memory be a blessing and bring comfort to all who know and love him.
Bob had been living at the Golden Plough Lodge for the last couple of years. The staff there have become like family and we are so appreciative of the care he received.
Donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada or Diabetes Canada are appreciated.
