Carneailous C. Watterson

Carneailous "Neil" Carmack Watterson, age 93, of Northern Colorado, passed away peacefully at home on January 21, 2025 in the care of his daughter, Mary. Born on August 15, 1931, in Kittitas, WA, Neil grew up in Ellensburg, WA, on a farm where he learned the values of hard work and family. He married the love of his life, Barbara Ellen McEntyre, on February 3, 1954. Together, they shared a life filled with love, adventure, and cherished memories.

In December of 1950, at the age of 19, Neil enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he served his country with honor. His service took him to Japan and Europe, including time spent in Germany, France, Spain, Holland, Italy, and Luxembourg. Neil's skills evolved during his time in the military; he began as a baker and later became a forensic photographer. He served as an Aerial Photographer on a B-52 aircraft during the Vietnam War, capturing important and often historical images.

Following his honorable discharge in 1971, Neil and Barbara settled in Northern Colorado, where he worked for Eastman Kodak for nearly 20 years before retiring. He and Barbara enjoyed their retirement years taking road trips across the country, playing cribbage, pinochle, and poker with friends and family, and sharing countless stories. Neil loved to connect with people, always eager to listen and share tales from his fascinating life.

Neil had a profound love for music and dancing, often lighting up any room with his moves and infectious energy. He was a devoted father and grandfather, and when he wasn't sharing his love of music, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping with his children. His passion for the outdoors was only rivaled by his deep love for his family and friends. His warm spirit, kindness, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Neil was predeceased by his wife, Barbara, and their infant daughter, Lisa LaVerne. He is survived by his three children: Paul (married to Lee-Ann), Richard (married to Irene), and Mary, along with his grandchildren: John (married to Genevieve, with children Sam and Max), Joseph (married to Courtney), Annie (married to Jared, with children Matthew and Brynlee), and Tyler (married to Brittany).

Beyond his immediate family, Neil was especially grateful to his longtime neighbor and great friend, Denny Arnold, with whom he shared many fond memories over their 40-year friendship.

Neil's legacy of service, family, and friendship will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

The Liturgy of the Hours Office of the Dead will take place 7 pm, Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Bohlender Funeral Chapel. A Rosary will be prayed at 9:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 9:30 a.m. on February 3rd, 2025, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Fort Collins, CO. Committal services with full military honors will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025, at Fort Logan National Cemetery.