News is coming through that the incomparable plantsman, John Watson, has died. John has been in failing health for some time and finally received the brain surgery he had been waiting for for a year in March this year. John and his wife Anita are familiar to many from their articles for the International Rock Gardener e-magazine - they are true experts in the Rosulate Violas of South America and John will be greatly missed by plantsmen and friends alike. Our fond condolences go to Anita Flores, Sarah Watson and Nicola Watson at this very sad time.
Photo of John and daughter Sarah 24th March 2024.
Sarah wrote on 2th March:
"So dad finally had brain surgery, here in Chile, on Thursday (we've been waiting a year for it) and he's back home already, doing really well so far.
He was meant to stay in hospital for a week or so, so they could keep an eye on him. But he made such a huge fuss about not being at home that they discharged him on Friday, for me to care for him!
So here we are at our favourite salon de té, Las Casas, which has lovely pastries and coffee, and the best pistachio ice cream del mundo imo. I think we deserve a treat!"
Readers of IRG will know about Claire de Schrevel and her husband, Philippe Dandois - Claire wrote today :
" Fly high, dear John Watson ! A very great botanist, but very humble, with typical English humour has gone to heaven. We met in 2017 when we found a new Viola that John and Anita came to see and named after my husband's last name Philippe Dandois. They gifted us all the material needed to collect plants, they said we had a good eye! This was, thanks to them (e.o.) the beginning of our passion for the flora of ATACAMA. The last time we saw each other was when they came to meet the 3rd new Viola we found in 2022. Thank you for all the learning, and above all the great affection you had with us!
Now all our sympathy goes out to Anita to overcome this great loss of an unconditional love.
Much strength Anita, a big loving hug to you from the duo Philippe and Claire."
Last meeting in 2022, with John and Anita to meet the 3rd new Viola. Philippe and Claire with John and Anita.
Viola dandoisiorum J.Watson A.R.Flores - pic Claire de Schrevel
https://www.srgc.net/documents/irg/2018Aug301535657804IRG104-August2018.pdf
