Darrell Woodard Watson, 83, died Wednesday April 12, 2006, at Hospice House, Hutchinson, Kansas.

He was born March 16, 1923, in Loyal, Okla., the son of Orbra John and Lulu Ida Ogle Watson. He graduated from Loyal High School in 1941 and earned his degree from Harris Chiropractic College of Wichita in 1958.

He served in the 8th Air Force Bombardment Group in Europe during World War II, carrying out air reconnaissance. After returning from the military, he worked at Coleman Company of Wichita for 38 years, retiring in 1985.

Darrell was a life member of both the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Bob Campbell post No. 1361 and American Legion Lysle Rishel post No. 68, former member of Loyal Order of Moose Lodge No. 982, all in Hutchinson, and the Buhler Ramblers Camping Club.

He married Hester Johnson Guy of Hutchinson on Feb. 25, 1973. She survives.

Other survivors include his children, Connie Watson and Crista Bushell, both of Sand Point, Idaho, Kay and husband, John Miller and Erwin and wife, Sue Guy, all of Hutchinson. Grandchildren include Gary and wife, Teresa Blankenship, Timothy and wife, Jeannie Blankenship, Trey Bushell, Chelsea Bushell, Tori and husband, Luke Koester, Kelly Miller, Jeff Miller, Nathan Guy, Amanda Guy, Crystal and husband, Chris Cape, and Michelle Gruver. There are eight great-grandchildren.

Darrell was preceded in death by a son, Darrell Wayne Watson; a brother, Cecil; and his parents.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, at Elliott Mortuary Chapel, Hutchinson, with Pastor Brent Clayton presiding. Visitation will be from 5 to 9 p.m. today and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, with the family to receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, all at Elliott Mortuary. Burial will be in Fairlawn Burial Park, with military graveside honors conducted by Fort Riley Honor Guard.

Memorials may be sent to Hospice House or to Faith United Methodist Church, all in care of the mortuary