Claude William Watson

Feb 1, 1932 -

Dec 30, 2021

Claude William Watson died peacefully on Dec. 30, 2021, in Anchorage, Alaska. He was 89 years old. Claude was born in Marquette, Neb., on Feb. 1, 1932. He said he arrived with the Model B Fords. He grew up on the farm but dreamed of going to Alaska. He married Patsy Wagner and they started a family. In 1955, Claude moved his family to Denver, then Dillon, Colo., and worked various jobs including the Eisenhower Tunnel. In early 1959, his dream was fulfilled as he packed truck, trailer and family and headed to Alaska. After 18 days he arrived in Fairbanks. Although, as he drove through Fairbanks he was looking for a place to turn around as he thought he had missed the "city."

Airlines interested Claude and he worked for Alaska Airlines then Wien Air Alaska until they stopped operating. Many of Claudes' longtime friends were airline people. In Seattle, Wash., he was self-employed until returning to Anchorage in the 90s. He always loved cars and enjoyed zooming around in his 59jag. He and Jeanette, his wife, also spent much time at the Anchorage Senior Center, where they were both active. He lived in retirement in Anchorage until his death.

Claude is survived by son, Rick (Kathy) of Fairbanks and their two sons, Rick Jr. (Kara) and Jeffrey; great-grandsons, Joshua and Cooper; and also surviving is Cheryl Austin and her family.

There will be no services.