John F. Watson , 89, passed away on Saturday September 23, 2023 at his home in Sellersburg following a yearlong battle with cancer.

He was born on March 26, 1934 in New Albany, Indiana and was raised by Ben and Mabel Blankenbaker in Borden, Indiana.  He served in the United States Army for six years, and retired from Clark Memorial Hospital in 1999 after 31 years of service.

John loved fishing, tinkering in his garage, NASCAR racing, and going to the casino ("going to the boat").

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Irene and daughter Barbara Watson.

John is survived by daughters Shirley Watson Gross (Kevin) of Bloomington, Indiana and Deborah L. Martin (Alan Jones) of Meadow Vista, California; seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service with military honors will be held Thursday, September 28, 2023 at 1:00 P.M. at Sellersburg Cemetery.

Garr Funeral Home has been entrusted with his arrangements.