Nick Watters
Aug. 8, 1942 – Sept. 20, 2024

John Nicholas “Nick” Watters was born on Aug. 8, 1942, to Joseph Lawrence and Anna Mae Watters. He grew up in Ironton, alongside his older brother Chris and sisters Regina and Mary Lyne. While attending St. Lawrence Grade School, Nick met the love of his life, Rita Ann Rudmann. After graduating from St. Joseph High School in 1960, Nick attended Xavier University, where he walked on to the men’s golf team. His talent and dedication earned him a golf scholarship, and he proudly captained the Musketeers’ golf team before graduating in 1965 with a degree in economics. Nick continued his education at Xavier, earning an MBA in 1967.
Nick and Rita married in 1964, beginning a lifelong partnership. Shortly after, they relocated to Detroit, Michigan, where Nick started his career with Ford Motor Company. In 1973, the family moved to Fort Collins, Colorado, where Nick pursued entrepreneurial ventures, including starting a small arcade business and exploring commercial real estate. In 1980, Nick settled into a successful career with General Dynamics, working in St. Louis, Missouri, and Detroit, Michigan, before retiring as the Chief Financial Officer of General Dynamics Land Systems in 1993.
Retirement was brief, as Nick’s passion for golf led him to the Senior PGA tour, where he spent two years traveling the country and competing in mini-tournaments. His love for the sport endured throughout his life.
Nick was known for his wonderful sense of humor; he was quick on his feet to tell a joke and lighten the mood. He was extremely gifted in math, which he seamlessly integrated into both his professional and personal life. Always generous with his time and advice, he was eager to share his wisdom with anyone who needed it.
Nick is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Rita, and their four children: Niki Gladys (John), Jonathan Watters (Stacie), Stephen Watters (Nikki), and Emily Watters (Erik). He took immense pride in his nine grandchildren: Amelia, Katelyn, Alex, Jack, Alana, D, Ella, Macy, and Jonathan. Nick also had a special place in his heart for his cat, Trixie Sue, who was always by his side.
Nick’s remarkable gift for numbers and his quick wit left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Whether sharing a joke or offering advice, he had a way of lifting spirits and connecting with those around him. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched with his humor, kindness, and love.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, Sept. 28 at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s of the Hills Catholic Church located at 2675 John R Rd. in Rochester, Michigan, with a celebration of life held immediately afterwards at Antoniou’s Town Square Pizza located at 918 S Rochester Hills Rd. in Rochester, Michigan. The family asks that donations be made in lieu of flowers to Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries at DRMM.org.