Peter Watts Memorial Media Fund
A friend to all he met, "Wattsie” was the epitome of old school values and work ethic.
He was revered for his professionalism, journalistic integrity and passion for his craft.
Throughout his 40+ year career, Peter patiently offered his time and expertise to the next generation of broadcast journalists.
The Peter Watts Memorial Media Fund will continue his legacy of mentorship.
* Fund will be held in Trust through a recognized Canadian banking institution
* A Board of Directors including the Watts family & industry professionals will oversee management of the Fund
* Open to Canadian students attending a Canadian post secondary institution with an emphasis on journalism.
* Monies will go to support a 1st year student with tuition and resource fees.
* Program will begin for the start of the 2020/21 school year
* Application details to be released by June 2019.
June 11, 1950 – Kingston, Ontario
January 18, 2019 – Calgary, Alberta
Peter Watts of Calgary, AB, passed away on Friday, January 18, 2019 at the age of 68 years.
Peter was born in Kingston, ON, where he grew up and attended Queen’s University, obtaining his degree in history and politics. While attending Queen’s he found himself in the radio booth working for the campus radio station CRFC while also managing the university football and hockey teams.
That radio experience was the start of his life’s work in the media industry. Some of his most memorable positions included CKWS TV in Kingston hosting news, weather and sports, CKLC radio show “Kingston Today”, CBC Sports Edmonton, Commentator for TSN Sportsdesk, and Host/Producer of the Alberta Morning News on the Corus Radio Network. Peter’s love of journalism made him a natural mentor; he was known to always take the time to guide and coach new staff.
Peter is survived by his sister Linda Watts, brother Paul Watts both of Kingston, ON; cousins and their families, Carol Grieco (Angelo Grieco, predeceased) of Kitchener ON, Heather (Stephen) Roberts, Janice (Mike) Morris, Sheila (Kevin) Riley, and Sharon Thompson all of Kingston, ON.
The family would like to thank the staff at Rockyview General Hospital for the care they provided Peter.
A celebration of life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th Street S.E., Calgary, AB) on Tuesday, January 29 2019 at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com.
Another celebration of life will be held in Kingston, ON at a later date.
If friends or family so desire, a Go Fund Me page has been established in Peters honour with all proceeds going to a fund that will assist the next generation of Broadcast Journalists. https://www.gofundme.com/peter-watts-memorial-fund
In living memory of Peter Watts, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th STREET S.E., Calgary, AB T2Z 4E6, Telephone: [phone redacted].