Dolores M. Watson

Dolores M. Watson, 93, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 13, 2026, in Libertyville, Illinois. She was born on September 29, 1932, in Waukegan, Illinois, to Fred and Alma Hadsell. She attended Evanston Hospital School of Nursing and had a lifelong love of sports, enjoying tennis, golf, volleyball, skiing, and snowmobiling. Dolores married her high school sweetheart, James Watson, on June 7, 1952. They shared 48 wonderful years of marriage until Jim's passing on February 2, 2001. Together they raised three children, whom Dolores loved. She treasured being a stay-at-home mother, always putting her family first and finding her greatest joy in supporting her children through life's challenges and celebrating their accomplishments. An active member of her community, Dolores belonged to the Junior Women's Club for many years, serving in several leadership positions. Alongside her husband, she helped build and operate a number of successful local businesses, including A-1 Cleaning, Edison Car Wash, Grand Car Wash, Liberty Trim Shop, Burger Chef, and American Maintenance. Together they also developed several commercial properties on Edison Court. Dolores and Jim shared a special love for Spread Eagle, Wisconsin, where they first purchased a home on Bass Lake and later built their dream home on West Lake. Their home became a gathering place for family and friends, creating countless treasured memories. Dolores formed many lasting friendships there and proudly served as president of the Garden Club. Her faith remained a guiding force throughout her life. Dolores was baptized, attended Sunday school, was confirmed, married, and sang in the choir at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Waukegan. She found great comfort in her faith and often spoke of the day she would be reunited with the Lord and with the love of her life, Jim. Dolores is survived by her loving children, Pamela (Jay) Knobbe, James "Jim" (Debbie) Watson, and Mark (Roberta) Watson; her cherished grandchildren, Erin (Scott) McLeod, Andrew (Elaine) Knobbe, Joshua (Ashley) Katson, Cody (Laura) Watson, Sarina (Elijah) Garcia, and Gavin (MaKayna) Watson; her beloved 6 great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Watson, her sisters, Dorothy Magnuson and Marilyn Dretske and by her loving companion, Bob Jordan who came into her life and was a kind, helpful, considerate friend that she was thankful for. A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1310 N. Frolic Avenue, Waukegan. Interment will follow at Northshore Garden of Memories in North Chicago. Arrangements have been entrusted to Burnett-Dane Funeral Home in Libertyville. For information, please call 847-362-3009 or share a memory at www.burnettdane.com.

Dolores M. Watson

September 29, 1932 - July 13, 2026