George A. Watson, 88, GM Tank Attendant

Born September 8, 1917 in Lilbourn, MO, where he was raised. He had made his one in Elyria for 18 years before moving to Lorain where he had lived for the past 41 years.

George worked for General Motors in Elyria retiring in 1980 after 31 years as a tank Attendant. He was a member of the Open Door for 35 years where he served as a past deacon and bus driver. He was a member of the Lorain Senior Citizen Club, past member of AARP Chapter 3124 Elyria where he was past president. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, hunting and fishing.

Survivors include his son George A. Watson of Amherst; his stepsons Claude L. Kernell of Berlin Heights, William A. Kernell of Sandusky, Danny F. Kernell of Brighton, OH , Lynn R. Kernell of Hemet, OH, Johnnie H. Kernell of Vermilion and Norman R. Kernell of Lorain; his stepdaughters Violet Marie Toth of Lorain, Jean Nelson of LaMirada, CA, Lorena Tellman of Avon, 17 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren; 7 great great grandchildren; his brothers Ulmont "Sam" Watson of Elyria, Leon Watson of Florence Twp., Howard Watson of Elyria and Carl Watson of Palm Dale, CA.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Bernice (nee Holmes) Watson in 2001; his daughter Judith Alexander in 1965; his parents Francis M. and Lucy (nee Wright) Watson; brothers Morlin, Homer, Chester, Franklin and Dale Watson died as children; his sisters Izetta Watson died as a child and Sarah Mitchem.

Friends may call Monday, April 08, 2002 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Hempel Funeral Home, 373 Cleveland Ave., Amherst. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, at 11:00 a.m. from the funeral home. The Rev. William Y. Williams, associate pastor of Church of the Open Door will officiate. Burial will be in Ridge Hill Memorial Park, Amherst Township.

Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association - Cleveland Chapter; 12200 Fairhill Road, Cleveland, OH 44120.