Marion Lorraine (MacNeal) Watson

Marion Lorraine Watson (nee MacNeal), 90, a longtime resident of Ingleside, Illinois, died April 2, 2018.

Marion was born in Chicago, Illinois and completed her bachelor’s degree at Lake Forest College, where she was an active member of Gamma Phi Beta sorority.  She worked for the Red Cross in Honolulu, Hawaii after graduation.  Returning to Chicago, Marion was a Human Resources professional for many years as Director of Personnel for the Cook County Hospital School of Nursing, Saks Fifth Avenue and Marshall Fields stores.

Following her work in Chicago, Marion, with husband George, devoted her time to building and managing Holiday Park Summer and Winter Resort, Holiday House, and the Apple Tree Restaurant on Wooster Lake in Ingleside, Illinois—a subsidiary of Donald B. MacNeal, Inc. Crane Rental.  Alongside many family members and friends, Marion greeted and served picnic, swimming, skiing, and restaurant guests almost 365 days per year for over 40 years.

Throughout her work-life and in retirement, Marion continued to be an active member of McHenry Country Club.  She supported countless annual projects and events while enjoying many long-term friendships and associations.  Marion was an avid sports fan and especially enjoyed volunteering for the McHenry Country Club Women’s and Men’s Invitationals.

Earlier this year, Marion retired as the President of the Lake County Merit Commission and received an award from the organization.  Her longevity, support and affiliation with the Merit Commission, in addition to the many friendships that she made while there, were a great source of pride and satisfaction for Marion.  Her natural ability to actively utilize her assessment, communication, and management skills was something that she truly enjoyed.

Marion was also a long-term supporter of Camp Duncan in Volo, Illinois and contributed many hours volunteering and soliciting donations for the George Watson Memorial Christmas Event for children every year.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, George B. Watson; her devoted brother, Robert (Mary Helen) MacNeal; and her parents, Donald Bruce and Lillian Maude (nee Thompson) MacNeal. 

Marion leaves behind her sister-in-law, Mary Helen (the late Robert) MacNeal; nieces, Bonnie Sheil (nee MacNeal), Roberta (Timothy) Presbitero, Sandra (Robert) Geisler; nephew, Bruce (Jill) MacNeal; in addition to seven great and seven great-great nieces and nephews.  She rarely missed a birthday or holiday celebration with her family.

Interment will be private.  A Celebration of Marion’s life will be held Saturday, May 5, 2018, at 3:30 p.m., at McHenry Country Club, 820 N. John St., McHenry, Illinois.

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