Greg Watling

Funeral Location:St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church

Resting Location:Northumberland Funeral Home

Wishes:Donations may be made to the Miramichi History Museum

As he wished, the passing of Gregory (Greg) Ellison Watling occurred in the comfort of his own home on Thursday, April 28th, 2022 at the age of 64, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honour his legacy by living their lives to the fullest. Greg was supported in his journey under the watchful eyes of his beloved wife, Donna, and caring hands of his family.

Born in Chatham, he was the eldest son of Gilbert “Gib” and the late Mary (Donovan) Watling.

From an early age, Greg was an outdoorsmen; an interest that was sparked by many family camping trips across the maritimes. Throughout his school years he was an enthusiastic member of Scouts Canada, a natural leader and recipient of the Duke of Edinburgh award while a Venturer. Greg later became a venture leader, a role where he would motivate and inspire other young men to pursue their love for the outdoors.


Greg’s summer employment in 1975 at Fundy National Park solidified his commitment to a career in forestry, which was also inspired by his Grandfather, Herman Donovan, a respected Forest Ranger in Renous. He graduated from Miramichi Valley Highschool in 1976, and continued his education at UNB where he graduated in 1981 with a Bachelor of Forestry. Following his Graduation from UNB, he was hired as a Forrester at the Department of Natural Resources. Greg was a proud and respected Forrester, and ended a 36 year carrer as a Regional Director, in April 2021.


Greg was happiest when he was surrounded by his family. A devoted husband, and proud father. Greg married his high school sweetheart, Donna, in 1985. Shortly after they married, Greg and Donna moved their young family, to the Watling Homestead in Loggieville, where they proudly raised their family. Returning to his family’s roots, Greg often remarked about the warm welcome they received and strong sense of community within Loggieville. His focus was always on supporting and nurturing his children and all of their many interests, and in the last 3 years, his grand daughters.


Greg took great pride in not only his family’s history, but his communities as well. He served as a proud board member with the Miramichi Historical Society, for over 25 years. He played an instrumental role in the relocation of the Miramichi History Museum, to its current location.
Greg possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of music and had a broad and eclectic music collection. Always eager to recommend music, and able to tailor his recommendations to just about anyone.


He will be greatly missed by his wife Donna (Aubie) Watling of Loggieville; Daughter Erin (Yves Despres) of Fredericton; Son Eric (Jessica) of Loggieville; two sisters Debbie Walsh (Eldon) of Whitney, and Susan Roberts (Steve) of Upper Tantallon, NS; brother David Watling (Colleen Reinsborough) of Miramichi; two granddaughters Nève and Noemie Despres; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive relatives and friends from Northumberland Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 5, 2022, at St Mary's Roman Catholic Church, at 1 pm, with Father Bastarache officiating. At the request of the family, the wearing of facemasks would be preferred.

As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Miramichi History Museum.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Northumberland Funeral Home, 102 Pleasant St, telephone (506) 622-7741