Longtime Curtis/Germfask resident, Cleveland “Dan” G. Watson, 92, died Friday morning May 22, 2020 at his residence in Portage Township surrounded by his loving family. Born September 15, 1927 in Grand Haven, son of the late Cleveland Sr. and Hazel (Anderson) Watson, he married the former Elda May McGahan on July 17, 1946 in Curtis. Dan was employed as a truck driver for Northwestern, the State of Michigan, Bill Burton and Sons and E.J. Watson Forest Products for several years until his retirement. Dan loved woodworking and created “Papa Dan’s Toy Shop” where he sold handmade wooden toys worldwide and also donating his creations to several organizations. He also enjoyed spending time with his immediate and extended family.
In addition to his parents, Dan is preceded in death by his wife Elda on September 27, 2000, daughter Cindy May Mattson, granddaughter Tara Mae Shortridge, grandson E.J. Joseph Mattson and siblings Lona, Mildred, Hazel, Asa, Clifford and Joseph. Survivors include his children sons E.J. (Louise) of Germfask, Dan (Audrey) of Nashville, MI and Yvonne Schwegle of Mesa, AZ; 11 grandchildren, 13 greatgrandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren and one great-great-great granddaughter; sister Elsie Banghart of Florida; several nieces and nephews. No public services will be scheduled. Dan will be fondly remembered with a private family interment at Woodlawn Cemetery in Curtis where he will be laid to rest with his beloved wife Elda.
Condolences may be expressed at http://www.beaulieufuneralhome.com. Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family.
