SW Polk Fire District Mourns The Passing Of President Rod Watson (Photo) - 09/04/26
It is with profound sadness that the Southwest Polk Fire District announces the passing of longtime Board President Rod Watson.
Rod served the Southwest Polk Fire District Board of Directors for 32 years, many of those years as President. Few individuals have had a greater or more lasting influence on the direction, culture, and future of our Fire District.
Rod believed deeply in service to his community and in doing things the right way. Throughout his years of leadership, his guidance was consistent: take the high road, do what is right, and always remember who we are here to serve. That philosophy became more than advice; it became part of the standard by which our District operates.
During his tenure, Rod played a key role in many of the District’s most significant accomplishments. His leadership helped bring three new fire stations to the District, strengthen regional fire services, establish ambulance services, and secure funding to hire additional firefighters and staff the Bridgeport Fire Station.
Rod was more than a Board President. He showed up. He attended District events, supported our firefighters and staff, and remained deeply invested in the people and communities we serve. It was a privilege to work alongside him, and his legacy cannot simply be measured by his accomplishments. It lives on in the organization he helped build, the lives he influenced, and the standard of integrity he left for us to follow.
Outside the Fire District, Rod was the owner of RG Watson Farms, a respected member of the Rickreall community, a husband, a father of four, and the proud grandfather of twenty. His dedication to family, agriculture, community, and public service reflected a life centered on service to others.
The Southwest Polk Fire District extends its deepest condolences to Rod’s family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by his friendship and service.
President Watson, thank you for 32 years of extraordinary service, leadership, friendship, and unwavering commitment to this District and its people.
Your watch has ended, but your legacy will remain with us always.
