Tom Watson

MALTA-Tom Watson, farmer/rancher and musician, passed away peacefully April 2, 2017 at his home with his family at his side after a brief illness.

Memorial services will be 11 a.m., Friday, April 7, at the Kirkwood Memorial Chapel. Interment with Military Honors will be in the Malta Cemetery. Condolences for the family may be left at http://www.kirkwoodfuneralhome.com

Tom was born April 19, 1936 in Malta to Ray and Laura Watson. He attended grade school at Tallow Creek School and graduated from Malta High School in 1955. He served three years in the Army and National Guard with basic training in Fort Ord, Calif., and went to Fort Knox, Ky., where he received a diploma in Mechanics.

Tom was an accomplished carpenter, welder, fence contractor, cattle rancher and steward of the land. He enjoyed raising top registered quarter horses and spent many hours reading and studying the Bible. Tom was also a talented musician, playing in a band in the early days with his brothers, Don and Ken, known as the Watson Trio. Many have danced to his music; he played for weddings and funerals and entertained at the Hi-Line Retirement Center. He also won many fiddle contests that were held at the Malta City Hall. He enjoyed his many friends.

He was a member of the American Quarter Horse Association, served as a board member of the Tallow Creek School. He served as President of District 5 Fiddlers Assoc. and was also on the State board of directors. He received the Conservation Farmer of the Year award.

He leaves behind his wife Lorraine of 56 years; daughters, Lorna (Dale) Krause, Barbara (Bruce) Christofferson; brother, Ken Watson of Victor, Mont., nine grandchildren. six great-grandchildren with one on the way; and his faithful dog "Poochee"; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Laura Watson; brother, Don Watson, son, John Watson, grandson, Tyler Christofferson.