Willem Holden Watkinson
WEST KENNEBUNK – Willem Holden Watkinson, beloved son of Erin (Tabak) Watkinson and Brian Watkinson, unexpectedly passed away on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, at Maine Medical Center in Portland.
A resident of West Kennebunk, Will was born in York, on June 22, 2005. He was an extraordinarily creative and talented audio/visual artist, filmmaker, sk8r, and friend to all. Will recently completed a challenging program at the International Stunt School in Seattle, Wash.
When Will was little, other parents had said, “My kids never laugh the way they laugh when Will is here” and “All the kids get along better when Will is here.” They would say, “It’s actually easier when Will is here.”
Since Will’s passing, there has been an overwhelming outpouring of messages from people from all over expressing deep gratitude for having had Will in their lives. His peers rejoice that he was unique, genuine, kind, creative, brilliant, inspiring, supportive, very funny, humble and loving. Some credit Will for being who they are today. Older adults greatly appreciated his manners, warmth, intelligence and ease to be around. His parents burst with pride knowing that all of the above is true.
Will didn’t like any form of diminishing people. He only lifted them up. He made everyone feel good with his unconditional acceptance. Will left this world far too soon, yet, he managed to create a legacy of kindness, creativity, and inspiration on a level that sometimes older adults never achieve. He mastered the things that matter most and surpass earthly success. He will be painfully missed, to which he would dryly reply, “It’s not that deep”.
He is survived by his parents, Erin (Tabak) Watkinson and Brian Watkinson of West Kennebunk; his maternal grandmother Elaine (Rame Tabak) DesJardins of Middletown, Conn.; half-sister Chrystal Watkinson of Industry; stepgrandmother, Sandra (Roth Tabak) Cote of Alfred, special friends, sk8 mentor, Michael Thompson of West Kennebunk and Sharon (Irving) Thompson of West Kennebunk; two cats, The Black One and The Gray One; a nephew, Asher Kessinger of Industry; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
A celebration of life will be announced for a later date.
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