Romaine Rockwell Watrous III

Romaine Rockwell Watrous III, age 76 of Groton, NY departed this life on Saturday, October 25, 2025, after a period of declining health.

Slugger, as he was known since he was a child, was born in Binghamton, NY to Reverend Mildred E. Logan (Munson) and Romaine “Skeet” Watrous II. He was predeceased by his two younger brothers Richard “Dickie” Watrous and Andrew Coates Watrous.

Slugger graduated from Windsor Central High School in 1969 and enlisted into the U.S. Air Force. He served active duty during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in 1975 as a Sargent. He was recorded to be “likeable with an excellent sense of humor, efficient and constantly produces exceptional results, under the most demanding situations. An outstanding airman and a definite asset to the Air Force” by his superiors.

Slugger had a thirst for knowledge. He studied Archaeology and Anthropology for 2 ½ years at Syracuse University and one year at SUNY Binghamton. Slugger respected the martial arts, studied, and taught Kung Fu. He earned the nickname ‘Grandmaster Ro’ from his teachers. He never passed up the chance to challenge you at a game of Chinese Checkers in which he always strategically won. He was well known for his conversation skills and his love of garage sales. In his later days, he spent much of his free time creating peace pipes out of antlers, wood, and soapstone. Slugger was kind to anyone who was kind to him.

Slugger is survived by his stepfather Jerry Logan, his two nieces Shenatel (Nathan) Busby and Laurie Watrous. The family wishes to thank the staff at Cortland Crown Park for making his final months comfortable.

Following Slugger’s wishes, there will be no service. Interment will be held by his family in the Spring. Expressions of condolences can be sent to: Watrous Family, POB 4, Freeville, NY 13068.