Robert (Bob) Watson was a specialist in corporate and commercial law. He was one of the founding partners of the firm now known as Watson Goepel.

Bob was born and raised in Nanaimo, BC. He attended UBC and went on to obtain an LLB from UBC Law School (now the Allard School of Law) in 1974.

Bob articled at Owen Bird and was called to the bar in 1975. He worked as an associate until 1979. Bob joined Sutton Braidwood as an associate in 1979 and became a partner in 1981. In 1984, he was a founding partner of the firm now known as Watson Goepel. Bob was the firm’s first managing partner, a position he held until 2006. Bob was pivotal in the firm’s growth, building and maintaining a successful corporate commercial practice alongside the busy trial practices of his partners. Watson Goepel’s culture and work ethic were established early on under Bob’s leadership. Bob’s “can do” attitude and strong work ethic saw the firm grow steadily into one of BC’s most reputable and well-regarded law firms. Bob mentored many young associates in both the art of lawyering and the equally important management of their practices thus assuring their success. Bob’s counsel and strategic vision was cherished by his clients.

Bob lost his courageous battle with cancer on June 4, 2021. He is survived by his loving wife Karen, children: Andrea (Aveen), Hayley (Pancho), Sam (Devon), and Lauren (Phil) and grandchildren: Ben, Lily, Mila and Ivy (the apples of his eye).

He was a principled, loyal, kind and honest man to have on your side. We shall do our best to carry on his legacy.

Your gift will pay tribute to Bob’s life and career by supporting students at the Peter A. Allard School of Law at UBC. Gifts will b­­e directed to the Robert Watson Memorial Fund in Law, with final decision on the award description and student eligibility made in consultation with the family.