We are very sad to have to inform you that PDG Mary Watson passed away last week. Mary started her Rotary career as soon as women were allowed to join in 1989, by being welcomed into the Burnaby Metrotown club. Later she joined the Vancouver Arbutus club and latterly the Tsawwassen club.
Mary, together with her husband Sandy, spent many of these years serving at District level – including as District Treasurer and as Youth Exchange chair. Many of us will remember Mary as a strong and vibrant leader and passionate about the youth who were going or coming to their unforgettable year of exchange. As an early woman Rotarian, she was a mentor to many of the women of Rotary that joined and followed her. In 2003 – 2004 she took that position to the next level and as first woman District 5040 Governor, paving the way for the many who have followed her over the years.
Originally from Toronto, Mary taught English and Accounting and then joined the computer revolution and brought that technology to the accounting functions of many businesses. She and Sandy married in 1966 and her involvement with youth, following the birth of their children Kevin and Lauren, started with Girl Guides and Boy Scouts, eventually leading to her involvement with the District Youth Exchange program for many years.
Always interested in Travel, Mary became involved with the Sister Families project in the Philippines as well as Microcredit projects in Negros. And not least, her enthusiasm for Dragon Boat racing kept her fit for many years!
We will always remember Mary as a dedicated Rotarian, an amazing leader for our District and deserving of the title of “First Lady” to govern District 5040. Our condolences are extended to husband Sandy and her children Kevin and Lauren and her extended family.