John Carr Watson

John Carr Watson 1938 – 2025  

Peacefully, after a short illness, John passed away at North Shore Hospital’s Totara Haumaru unit with his children lovingly by his side.  

Born in Broughty Ferry, Scotland, John and his beloved wife Anne (now both reunited) made the North Shore and Hibiscus Coast their home from 1979. He was predeceased by his parents, Alexander and Agnes, and siblings Mary and Alexander.  

John is lovingly remembered by his daughter Sharon, her husband Jon, and grandsons Vincent and Louis in England; his son Stephen and partner Amanda, who visited him regularly and cherished their time together; and his sister-in-law Vera, with whom he shared daily conversations. His extended family across New Zealand and abroad held him in deep affection.  

A lifelong sailor and fisherman, John found companionship and joy among his many friends in the yachtie community and beyond — both locally in Whangaparaoa and back home in the UK. A gifted storyteller with a twinkle in his eye, John’s warm Scottish charm and boundless imagination endeared him to many. He was a familiar and beloved presence at the Plaza Mall, delighting generations of children as the jolly Santa Claus. His rescue dog Charlie was his devoted companion in his final months. 

A celebration of John’s life will be held at Forrest Funeral Services, 39 Riverside Road, Orewa, at 10:30am on Thursday, 3rd July, followed by refreshments. All who knew and loved John are warmly welcome.