Alice K. Watson

Visalia native, Alice Kristine Watson, daughter of Richard and Ann (Switzer) Watson, died on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at Kaweah Delta Medical. A prolific writer, chef, and independent survivalist, Kris attended Conyer School just a block from her childhood home before attending Divisidero Middle School and graduating a proud Pioneer of Mt. Whitney High School, where she was especially proud her senior year to be editor of the school newspaper. Forever the independent thinker, Kris attended American Christian College in Oklahoma and worked as a personal assistant to Oral Roberts during her college days. During her time at college her greatest adventure was being part of the traveling choir, and she spoke fondly of her time with the choir. She returned to Visalia to deliver her daughter, Katrina, and shortly after began her 30 year career as a medical transcriptionist. As a proud single mom she accomplished and sacrificed much so her daughter, Katie, could experience things that many children do not, including trips to Florida, Hawaii, and Europe. Kris took camping seriously and never missed an opportunity to explore. Several years before her death, she fulfilled her life-long dream of owning an RV and enjoyed many trips in it. Her favorite camping memories included taking her mother and their dogs to Morro Bay for a weekend trip full of laughter and unexpected moments making memories. Her world brightened when her first granddaughter Kristie was born in 1999 and the again in 2005 when Zoe was born. She cherished every moment with them both. Some of her fondest early life memories include spending time with her grandparents, particularly a life-changing cruise to Alaska, and bringing her grandmother, Winifred, flowers on May Day. She adored the time she spent with them and adored her grandfather, Wayne. Kris also spoke often of her time in the Girl Scouts when her mother, Ann, was troop leader. Kris in many ways exemplified the description found in Proverbs 31 of the virtuous woman. Her faith sustained her through the peaks and challenges of life. Kris learned to can food and was featured on a local television station in an interview discussing her extensive collection of canned goods. Her survivalist mentality lead her to start a blog , writing about frugal living including 25 ways to boil water without flame or a burner. Just three days before she began to worship the Lord in person with her beautiful voice, she cited her life verse as “I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength.” It was her faith that sustained her in life, and it is her faith that will sustain her in eternity. Kris is survived by her mother, Ann (Switzer) Watson, her daughter Katrina Mishler and son-in-law Kent Mishler, and the apples of her eye, Kristine Mishler and Zoe Mishler, and soon to be born grandson Maui Mishler, Sister Becky (Steve) Young, and brother Thomas Watson (Myrna), and many nieces and nephews. Her father Richard Watson died in 2012. Kris will be layed to rest next to her father and grandparents at the Visalia District Cemetery. A Memorial Service will be held to celebrate Kris’ life at Gateway Church on Thursday, October 16, at 3:00 in the afternoon.

Alice K. Watson

September 25, 1951 - October 11, 2014