Douglas Eugene Watz

Douglas Eugene Watz
October 26, 1954 – May 24, 2025

Douglas Eugene Watz, 70, a beloved resident of San Leon, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025. He was born in Lapeer, Michigan, on October 26, 1954.

Doug spent his career as a skilled electrician, known for his steady hands and strong work ethic. But it was the quiet mornings fishing from the pier in front of his home where he truly came alive. That pier, looking out over calm waters, became his sanctuary—and a place of warmth and welcome for all who knew him. He loved inviting family and friends to join him there, sharing conversation, peace, and simple joy.

When not fishing, Doug could often be found enjoying a round of golf, playing around on the guitar, laughing with friends and savoring the day. Later in life, nothing meant more to him than time spent with his children and grandchildren. Whether it was telling stories, offering advice, or simply being present, Doug created memories that will live on for generations.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard C. Watz and Rose Marie (Nelson) Watz, and by his brothers, David Watz and Danny Watz.

He leaves behind to treasure his memory: his daughters, Deborah Harrison, Kathleen Cochran, and Jennifer Diaz; his son, Christopher Harrison; his stepson, Michael Harrison; the mother of his children Anna (Harrison) Kimmel and his beloved sister, Bernadine Hewett. Doug is also survived by his stepsister, Rhonda Sealy; stepbrother, Roger Romine; sons-in-law, Marcial Diaz, Jason Cochran, and Justin Young; his cousin, Sandra Davis and her husband, Clark Davis; and his niece, Crystal Hewett, and her young daughter Morgan; nephews Jeremy Watz and Joshua Hewett.

His five cherished grandchildren—Kinzey Cochran, Kacey Cochran, Madix Diaz, Austin Diaz, and Devon Diaz—will carry forward his love, his stories, and the calm, steady spirit he brought to every room.

Doug’s presence, laughter, and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing and loving him.

A farewell gathering will be held at a local spot to be announced by the family.

4 comments

  1. Dad, I will love you forever and I will always cherish the fun times we had growing up and the silly games played this last year with my boys❤️ I am forever grateful that my boys and I will have those memories of you. I know this last year was the most difficult for you and I truly hope I helped you navigate some of the bigger challenges you faced. I think you are a brave, generous and kind soul and I’m blessed to have been able to get closer to you more recently. The boys and I love you and that will never change. You will be truly missed. I know I will see you again dad, your loving daughter Jenny❤️

    Jennifer Diaz
  2. Doug,
    It was a sincere pleasure getting to know you over our backyard fence the way they did on the TV show “Home Improvement”! You were always so kind & very interesting to visit with. It was truly comforting to share conversations with someone who completely understood the issues that being our age creates! I am holding your beautiful family in my prayers as they learn to navigate life following the loss of someone as special as you. Rest in peace, my friend.

    Respectfully,
    Debbie Fielding

    Deborah Fielding
  3. RIP Doug. Going to miss our conversations and fishing trips. Hope you keep reeling in the big ones!

    Roger Traugott Jr.
  4. Dad,
    There won’t be a day that goes by that I won’t be thinking about you.
    You truly were and still are the greatest person I’ve ever known. I will hold our memories close to me. You have always held the most special place in my heart and forever will. Im forever grateful to have had the time God gave me with you. And so are your granddaughters. You were the most generous, kindest, give the shirt off your back, one of a kind guy. Not a single person that knows you will say different. You are loved by so many.

    I know you’re at peace now, in a better place. God has called you home. Though my heart aches, I find comfort in knowing that I’ll see you again one day.
    Until then, I’ll carry your love with me always.

    I love you forever,
    Katy Bug

    Kathleen Cochran

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