As a former "Schuylerite" who played under Coach Watchorn during his early years of coaching, I was deeply struck by the sincere outpouring of love and respect shown in this "Guest Book" for Coach Watchorn. He clearly impacted many, many lives in a fundamental way over a long lifetime. What a wonderful legacy!...My condolences to the entire Watchorn family.
Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Coach and I went to Tarkio College in 1991 to recruit students as the college began to close. It was a very emotional day, but he did get two players to transfer. Coach and I were colleagues at Midland not once but twice. Many notes and conversations were shared about students we were both recruiting, sometimes for different reasons. In the end, Midland always won. Watchdog, as he was affectionately known everywhere on campus, was a man of purpose. Set your goals high. Don't let anyone get in your way. His 1974 team was indeed the transitive Division I national champion. Coach, you defined Midland football in the modern era. Midland is less because you are gone. Thanks for all the campus tours you helped me be successful with. And thanks for bailing my brother Jeff out of jail after the Lutheran Brotherhood Bowl. Respectfully- Gregg Kupfer


Tuesday, October 31, 2017

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Watchorn family. I am thinking of you during this difficult time. I am very thankful that my father led me to his good friend, Coach Watchorn, when I was looking for a college to transfer to. Meeting him and playing for him had and still has profound positive influences on my life. It was a blessing and a pleasure to to be one of the many lucky ones whose lives crossed paths with his. I also enjoyed seeing him and visiting with him when I would attend Warrior games even long after I graduated. He was always interested in my life and my family. He was a great man and will be missed by many.
Thursday, October 26, 2017

I want to express my condolences to the Watchorn family. Coach Watchorn was a great teacher, coach, and mentor. Coach had a positive influence on so many students, players, and coaches. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to represent Midland Lutheran College Football under his guidance and direction. The year's 1976-1980 have a special place in my heart because of Coach Watchorn. Thanks not only for the memories but for the life lessons you taught us Coach.
Wednesday, October 25, 2017

A remarkable man. It was a pleasure to have known him, even for a brief time. (Shalimar) Praying for peace and comfort to cover you all.
Wednesday, October 25, 2017

So sorry for your loss. Your father and mother were both wonderful and giving people. I am so thankful your family touched my life.
Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Rest in peace Coach.

Your guidance and mentorship have inspired me to spend the last 40 years of my life in education, coaching and being an athletic director. Thank you for starting my life journey in the right direction. Class of 1977
Tuesday, October 24, 2017

I consider myself blessed to have had the opportunity to be coached by Coach Watchorn in 68 and 69 at UNO. He was a terrific coach and mentor to whom I owe more than I can repay. I believe I speak for all former teammates, coaches, equipment managers and trainers who have gone before Coach Watch "Via Con Dios" .
Tuesday, October 24, 2017

Coach you were one of the most important parts of our UNO family. Thanks for helping me become a man. Condolences to his family most of all
Tuesday, October 24, 2017

Don was my coach, then my mentor but more importantly my friend. We first connected in Schuyler High in 1952. He was one of a kind and was loved and respected by my entire family. Rest in peace coach until we meet again.
Tuesday, October 24, 2017