Elbridge Wheeler Watson, 95 of Stratford, CT passed away peacefully on October 26, 2022 in his home where he lived for 69 years surrounded by his family.
Elbridge was born in Bridgeport, CT on February 16, 1927. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Gladys Watson, his devoted wife, Lois Wheeler Watson, daughter, Linda Watson Skonieczny, and brothers George and Robert Watson.
He leaves behind his son Richard Watson and wife Kris Watson, daughter, Debbie Mackay and his three grandchildren; Carrie Watson and husband Chris Picariello, Lauren Mackay and husband Erik Maul and Emily Mackay. He was so fortunate to recently meet his great granddaughter Tessa Maul.
Elbridge attended Kent School until enlisting in the Navy at 17 where he served as Seaman first class, in World War II, stationed in the Philippines. He returned to Kent School to finish his HS diploma and had the privilege of traveling to the Royal Henley Regatta with the crew team where they won the Thames Challenge Cup. He then attended UConn in New London studying Business. He started his career at his family’s store, Watson’s Inc. in Bridgeport, CT. In 1964 he, his brothers and a partner opened their own store, Watson’s Appliance and Hardware with two locations in Bridgeport and Huntington Center. He later worked for Edwards Company and Moore Tool as an R&D Tech, from where he retired. During his retirement he volunteered at SCORE, where he was the VP and Chairman, The Pine Grove Association serving as VP and Board Member and took a part time position at the Stratford Conservation Department. Elbridge enjoyed many hobbies- photography, tinkering on parts in his workshop basement, reading the New York Times and being an amateur radio operator - K1OAN.
Elbridge and his wife Lois would have been married for 72 years on October 28th, 2022. Together they enjoyed their time as members of Bronson Country Club, playing card games with friends, hosting dinner parties and traveling. He lived his 95 years to the fullest enjoying cruises with his children and grandchildren to the Caribbean, Mexico, Italy, France, Spain and The Greek Isles where we made cherished memories.
Of all the places he traveled his favorite place to be was sitting on his back patio entertaining guests by the pool- glass of red wine in hand. He was described by the people who knew him as a kind, patient and loving man, with a twinkle in his eye and mischievous smile. He was a selfless person who was always there to help friends and family to fix almost anything. He was adored and admired by his family as a father and grandfather and will be greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held for Elbridge on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at the Trinity Episcopal Church at 1734 Huntington Turnpike, Trumbull CT at 11:00am. A wake/reception to follow at 12:00 in the church hall.
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