Richard Watterson

Richard (Rich, Richie) James Watterson, age 59, of Toledo passed away May 8, 2023, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, Toledo. Rich was born April 14, 1964, in Toledo to James Watterson and Janet (Whitmore) Freeman. Rich was a 1982 graduate of Waite High School, where he played both football and hockey. Rich was employed at Clarios Battery but was best known as the bread man having worked for Taystee and Wonder Bread for 25 plus years. Rich was a veteran of the Army Airborne Division and was proudly Vice Chairman for the local 12 Veterans committee at Clarios.

Rich loved to cook and was very accomplished at it, often cooking for his friends and family whenever he could. Rich was a fan of sports and live music and attended as many games and concerts as possible, always cheering for the Minnesota Vikings and Montreal Canadiens. Rich was also an avid reader, apparent by his large library of books which he took great pride in. But most importantly Rich cherished his friends and family and will be remembered for his profound sense of loyalty and the depth of laughter he would bring to them. Rich had a sense of humor like no other and he never met a stranger. During Rich's illness it became abundantly clear just how many lives he touched by the number of friends, family and co-workers who came by to provide comfort for Rich while at the Hospice facility. Our families want to thank everyone who visited, called, and offered support and prayers at such a difficult time. We know Rich felt loved and was comforted and for this we are grateful.

Rich was preceded in death by his father James Watterson, stepfather Paul Freeman and grandparents, Albert and Ruth Whitmore and Carl and Marie Watterson. He is survived by his mother Janet Freeman; wife, Lisa Watterson; daughters, Carmen Watterson, Margo (Steve) Kucinski, Alicia Sifuentez; his very close and supportive friend, Lori Ortloff; sister, Amy (Jude) Hagan; brothers, Jeffrey, Norman, and Ross Watterson; Step siblings; Kevin Freeman (Terri), Kendall Freeman, and Karen (Shannon) Wymer. Rich adored his nephew and niece, Jack and Madeln Hagan, and they will miss their most entertaining uncle. Rich also loved his grandchildren very much; A'Layah, Analina, Amira, Alivia, Elias, Jayla, and Jalen. Rich had many close friends throughout his life but two that were a constant were Eric Berg and Tim Whitmore. Rich valued their friendships in every way, and he would want them to know that.

Lastly, we would like to thank the staff at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, Toledo for their tremendous support during some very difficult days.

Family and friends are asked to join in a memorial luncheon to honor Rich and share stories, as he will be missed dearly by all who have met him.
The memorial will be at VFW 2984 located at 102 W Andrus Rd. Northwood, Ohio 43619 on May 28th from 2-8.