Richard Watson Obituary

Richard Watson

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved friend and phenomenal musician, Richard Watson (from ABATE motorcycle club of Indiana).

Richard was a wonderful human, musician, and teacher! Richard was our principal tuba player and has been performing with LCSO for 31 years. He had also been an adjunct professor at Valparaiso University for over 30 years. Richard received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and his graduate degree from Northwestern. His marvelous musicianship had afforded him many opportunities in life, some of these include being a member of Honolulu, Utah, and Houston Symphonies.

Richard's other passion in life was motorcycling. He had been riding for over 40 years and had even toured Ireland, Scotland, England, and Continental Europe on his own motorcycle. He also passed that love of motorcycles on by being an instructor at ABATE Motorcycle Safety for over 30 years. He has won three awards, Indiana Instructor of the Year (twice) and the Rodney V. Taylor Award for excellence in promoting motorcycle safety.

Richard wasn't just a teacher/musician; he was a kind soul who helped anyone he could. He is loved by many and will be greatly missed. Services will be at Hackensack Funeral Home, 602 Maple Ave, in La Porte, Indiana, following visitation from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, July 12, 2025. Richard always wanted to retire to Hawaii, so attendees are encouraged to wear Hawaiian attire, especially shirts. Burial of cremains will take place Monday, July 14, 2025.