Walter Mackowski
Tempus Fugit – Time Flies
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Walter Mackowski of Southampton at Chapman House Hospice on March 8th 2025 in his 77th year.
Born to Vincent and Bella Mackowski in Kirkcaldy, Scotland on July 24th 1948, he arrived in Canada in 1957. Husband, best friend and life-long love of Carol (Draves) for 54 years. Father of Scott and his wife Kalli, Spokane WA, grandfather of Mya and step-grandfather of Miranda. Predeceased by brothers David Rodger (Margaret) and George Mackowski (Trynie) and sister-in-law Dianne Jackson (Keith). Survived by sister-in-law Pat Wyszynski, her husband Rick and several nieces and nephews.
Walter was a second-generation watchmaker who received a scholarship to train in Switzerland in 1967. Upon his return he operated Vincent Jewellers until retirement in 2017. His skill and expertise were shared with his cherished community and his reputation drew customers from far and wide. He worked tirelessly to keep the Southampton Town Hall Tower clock running on time for more than 50 years, receiving the Saugeen Shores Heritage Conservation Award in 2012.
During his life he was a member of the Port Elgin Kinsmen Club, the Southampton Rotary Club and the Bruce Shrine Club. Walter served on the Saugeen Memorial Hospital Board of Governors including one term as its chairman and served two terms as a councillor for the Town of Southampton.
According to Walter’s wishes cremation has taken place. Expressions of remembrance may be made to Brightshores Health System or Chapman House Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to Eagleson Funeral Home, Southampton.
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Editor’s Note: One summer afternoon in 2010, Walter asked if I wanted to see the Southampton Tower clock and, of course, I said yes. For someone deathly afraid of heights, I didn’t stop to think that I had to climb up into the tower to actually see the clock’s workings. Walter reassured me that I could do it and he would watch out for me. He was right. I made it to the top but Walter smiled in his quiet way and said it was the longest he had ever seen anyone take to get to the top! It was a great afternoon as Walter showed me the clock’s workings and explained in detail all about it … something I will never forget. Getting back down was another thing!
