Alma Eugene Jr. Watterson

LOGAN, UTAH - Our dearly loved husband, father, grandfather, and hero, Alma Eugene Watterson Jr., 94, passed away Feb. 4, 2011 in his home of complications due to age.

Alma was born June 17, 1916 to Alma Eugene Watterson Sr. and Annie Jeanette Sawyer Watterson. His parents and sister NeVada W. Hancey (Blaine) preceded him in death. His pioneer grandfather, William Watterson Jr. from Isle of Man, England, came across the plains in 1850.

Alma married his eternal sweetheart, Lila May Ralphs, in the Logan Utah Temple Feb. 10, 1944. Alma and Lila have been married 67 happy years. After being told by their doctor they would never have posterity, Alma and Lila were blessed with four loving and faithful children - whom they adore and cherish: Linda (Wallace J.) Smith, Paul A. (Cydne) Watterson, Scott R. (Michele) Watterson, and David J. (Tracy) Watterson. Alma and Lila’s posterity has grown to 13 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Alma and Lila’s love for one another and their family are truly inspiring. He would be the first to tell you he was incomplete without her. Lila’s devotion to Alma after his stroke in 2003 is symbolic of their love for one another.

Alma was born and raised in Logan. He attended Utah State University where he received his Bachelors of Science in Education and Political Science and a Masters degree in Educational Administration. He did further graduate studies at Idaho State University, University of Utah and the University of Southern California.

Alma was an accomplished educator, dedicated to the building and teaching of young people. Alma wrote, “ The satisfaction of seeing young people grow in stature and greatness is beyond what words can express.” Alma dedicated a total of 36 years in public school services where he taught and mentored countless students. He retired as the principal of Adams Elementary School in 1981.

Alma is a World War II veteran. He served in the Third Army in the European Theatre where received three Bronze Star medals and one Silver Star medal for his leadership and heroism in the war. He was active in the United States Army Reserves and retired as an Army Major. Alma often stated that he served his country so that his children could pursue their dreams in freedom and peace.

Alma has been an active member in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints all his life and has served in numerous callings. As a young man he served as a missionary in the Eastern Staes Mission. He served as a Counselor in the Logan 5th Ward Bishopric. He served three years in the Logan Central Stake Mission Presidency. He and his wife served a mission in Leeds, England. They also served as officiators in the Logan Utah Temple for 17 years.

Upon retiring Alma said, “I plan to fish, hunt, work, play, garden, travel – you name it – I am ready for the future.” He lived up to every word - and more. Alma was known for his love of life, devotion to family, sense of humor, and his indomitable work ethic. Indeed the words of Paul personified his good life, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

Funeral services will be held at 12 Noon on Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011 at the Eastridge LDS Chapel, 1350 East Eastridge Dr. Logan, Utah, with a viewing from 10:30-11:30 am prior to the service. A viewing will also be held from 6 to 8 pm Tuesday evening, Feb 8 at the Allen-Hall Mortuary, 34 E. Center St. Logan, Utah. The interment will be at the Logan City Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family may make donations to the Alma and Lila Watterson Education Scholarship at Utah State University.

The family would like to sincerely thank Alma’s dedicated doctors and aides for their compassionate service. Condolences and memories may be expressed online to the family at www.allenmortuaries.net