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November 26, 2018
We are sad to announce the death of Daniel Watts on Monday, November 26, 2018 following a brief bout of cancer. Daniel was born in 1938 at Tla ho ah.

Daniel, known as BB to family and friends, was pre-deceased by his parents, Chief Adam Watts and mother Nessie, brothers; Chief Hugh (Tuffy) Watts, Ivan Watts, Jim Hamilton (Hobby), sister Esther Casavant (Bibsy) and his infant son Ivan Daniel Watts. He is survived by his sons Dean Flagel and Rustee George Walker Watts; his niece Shaunee Margaret Casavant, sisters Juanita Elliott, twins Sandra Vissia and Sharean Van Volsen, Rose Petrilli (Gal) and brothers Buddy Hamilton, Ron Hamilton and Peter Hamilton-Watts as well as many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

He graduated from ADSS and was certified at the Institute of Adult Studies in Victoria BC as an Architectural and Structural Draughtsman. Daniel was a leader in our family and throughout his political and consulting career and made numerous valuable contributions to First Nations issues and needs. He served 14 years as chief councillor for Hupachasuth First Nation, as well as 15 years as the co-chair for the First Nations Summit. He is acknowledged for being an active participant on numerous boards and committees and in his retirement he still remained active as the president of the Sunshine Club in Port Alberni.

Daniel found joy in beautifying his home next to the river at Klehkhoot where he invited many friends and family. He had a special place in his heart for children and he was everyone's Uncle BB. Like his name-sake Chief Dan Watts, (his Nuuchahnulth name Kwit-chiinim ) for decades he was the epicentre that brought together four generations of our family. Many special times included trips to the Dairy Queen, swimming at his beach, a trip on the Lady Rose down the Alberni Canal, and big family barbecues. He will be dearly missed and we will be forever grateful for his presence in our lives.

At Daniel's request there will be no formal service. The family will have a tea in honour of Daniel on Sunday, December 9, 2018 at 11 am at the Hupacasath House of Gathering on Beaver Creek Road in Port Alberni. In lieu of flowers, donations to Ty Watson House or Tsawaayuus (Rainbow Gardens) are encouraged.



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