James Stanley Watson

MADISON-James S. Watson, age 82, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2015. He was born on Oct. 22, 1932, at the Fort Snelling Army Base in Minnesota, the son of Robert and Thelma (Fadner) Watson. He graduated from Wisconsin High School, Class of 1951. James proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1952 until 1954. He was a member of the American Legion Post #501. James received a Bachelor's Degree in Applied Science and a Master's Degree in History at UW-Madison. He worked for the State Historical Society of Wisconsin, as a curator, for 28 years before retiring in 1989. James was an active scouter with the Boy Scouts of America for 70+ years as a scout leader. He was a longtime assistant scoutmaster with troop 11 in the Mohawk District at the Glacier Edge Council. James was also in the chess club and loved playing cards. James is survived by his cousin, JoAnne (Larry) Towne of Oakfield; he was a father figure to Jason Dolphin and Jim Knuteson; and a good friend to Veryl Crompton. He was preceded in death by his parents. He will truly be missed by many friends and scouts. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr, at 11 a.m., on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2015. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Thursday. Burial will take place at Rienzi Cemetery in Fond du Lac at 11 a.m., on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his name to Friends of Scouting. Online condolences may be made to www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420