L. Wendell Watson, age 90, of P.O. Box 96, Cambridge Springs, PA went to be with the Lord at his residence on Tuesday, January 12, 2010. He was born on October 30, 1919 in rural Cambridge Springs, the eldest son of George and Betty Watson. He attended Rockdale Elementary School and graduated from Cambridge Springs High School in 1937. In 1939 Wendell received a two year diploma from Alliance College in Cambridge Springs.
Wendell was first employed in 1940 with the American Viscose Corp., Meadville, in their Chemical Laboratory. During World War Two he left the American Viscose to serve in the Chemical Warfare Service in Akron, Ohio. There he met Betty Lori Kiser, who became his wife on April 6, 1944. After the War ended, he returned to work at the American Viscose Corp. where he became a foreman.
In 1958, Wendell and his wife, Betty, established the Gospel Book and Supply Store in Meadville. Retiring from FMC (the former Viscose Corp.) in 1974, he worked full time at his store until his death.
Wendell attended First Baptist Church of Edinboro where he had been a Sunday School teacher of the Men’s Class. He was one of the original members of the Meadville Christian Broadcasting Station, WCRF, Moody Radio. He enjoyed gardening and lawn mowing of his properties.
In addition to his wife of 66 years, he is survived by a son – Keith L. Watson and his wife, Linda of Cambridge Springs; one granddaughter – Laura Ann, whom he loved and cared for tenderly, and many nieces and nephews. Wendell was preceded in death by his parents, two sons – Bruce M. Watson and Stuart W. Watson, a sister – Ethel Suchta, and a brother – H. Wilson Watson.
Calling hours are Thursday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Van Matre Family Funeral Home, 335 Venango Avenue, Cambridge Springs. The funeral will be Friday at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor John Worrall of Edinboro First Baptist Church officiating. Interment will be in Saegertown Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Meadville Christian Broadcasting, P.O. Box 348, Meadville, PA 16335.