Fundraiser for family of man killed in Bowmanville reaches its goal ten-fold

A fundraiser opened to support the family of Mitch Watson, the man killed in a workplace accident in Bowmanville, has reached over ten times its goal in a matter of days.

Watson was working at St. Marys Cement on the morning of March 21 when he became trapped under a large object. Durham Paramedics were quickly dispatched to the plant.

The paramedics were able to pull Watson out from under the object by 8:54 a.m., 27 minutes after the accident, but he was without vital signs by then. They started to work on resuscitating him, but declared Watson dead at 9:12 a.m.

The Ministry of Labour has launched an investigation into Watson’s death.

Watson, age 20, was a millwright from Uxbridge. A gofundme fundraiser was set up to assist his surviving family which includes his parents, sister and girlfriend.

“Mitch’s memory will be carried on by his father Mike, his mother Deanna, his sister Brooke, his loving girlfriend Lauren, his extended family, his work colleagues, and so many of us who were lucky enough to call him a friend,” wrote family friend Chris Hogg who started the fundraiser.

“All donations will be provided to the immediate family to support the family in the bereavement process,” Hogg said. “Mitch touched many lives and will be remembered forever.”

Watson was a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBCA) Millwright Local 2309. Many of the donations and comments in the fundraiser have come from his union brothers.

“We would like to extend our deepest condolences to family, friends, and co-workers during this difficult time,” the union wrote. “Arrangements for a funeral are in progress and the family would like to see as much support as possible from Mitchell’s union brothers and sisters.”

“As a Brother of United 2039 I’m grieving and want to say: this is so sad to realize that kids leave parents. Not opposite way as we know it,” wrote one.

Another said, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. Mitch made the world a better place. Such a kind and sweet young man.”

“My husband and son are Brothers of 2309 and this horrific accident hit close to home. Our sincerest condolences to the Watson family during this difficult time,” wrote another donor.

The fundraiser had a set goal of $5,000. However through 499 donations, the gofundme has already climbed to more than $52,000.

Further donations can be made online.