With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Kirk Marvin Watson. He peacefully left us while surrounded by his family on February 15, 2026, at the age of 76.
Born on September 11, 1949 to Marv and Shirley Watson he was raised in Danville, California and graduated San Ramon Valley High School in 1967. The friendships he formed during those early years remained with him throughout his life.
He was married for 44 years to his loving and devoted wife Karen (Gonsalves) Watson. Together they built a beautiful life and raised two amazing children, Chad and Ashley, who, along with his grandchildren, were the true pride and joy of his life.
Kirk began his professional journey with Conco in 1979 and dedicated 47 years to the company, working faithfully until the very end. Over the course of those years, he became an instrumental leader, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike. His knowledge and work ethic is immeasurable and his commitment and integrity left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.
To know Kirk was to know his quick wit, generous heart, and unwavering loyalty. If you were lucky enough to sit across from him at the card table for a competitive game of Gin Rummy, you understood the passion he brought to every hand. Sunday mornings were his ritual. You could find him at Country Waffles, enjoying breakfast before heading out to tee up at Oakhurst Country Club. Sports were a constant presence in his home. No matter the season, there was always a game on. Golf on quiet afternoons or his favorite teams, Oakland A’s, Warriors, and the 49ers. He didn’t just watch, he followed every play closely.
His yearly trips to Cabo, Canada, Scottsdale and Lake Tahoe were especially cherished; treasured times filled with laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments shared with friends and family.
Kirk is survived by his beloved wife Karen and children Chad Watson (Jennifer) and Ashley Murphy (Daniel). His loving grandchildren Mathew, Alynna, Harlow, Mason, and Nicole. Siblings Mike Watson and Jeff Watson, Brother-in-law Steve Gonsalves, Sister-in-law Janice Giacoma and Sister-in-law Gail Mouille. As well as his many cousins, nieces and nephews and their families. He is preceded in death by his parents Marv and Shirley Watson, siblings Lori Watson, Tad Watson, Scott Watson, nephew Michael Watson, Father-in-law Matt Gonsalves, Mother-in-law Marlene Gonsalves, and Sister-in-law Debra Gonsalves.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his humor, strength, and unwavering love for his family and friends. His legacy lives on in countless memories he created, the lessens he shared, and the lives he touched. We find comfort in knowing his spirit will remain with us always.
A celebration of life service will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, 11:00 AM at St. Bonaventure Church, 5562 Clayton Road, Concord. A reception will follow at 1:00 PM at Concord Aviation Center, 700 Sally Ride Drive, Concord, California.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to any of the following charities:
Community Youth Center (CYC), www.communityyouthcenter.org; Tax ID: 68-0358005; 2241 Galaxy Ct, Concord, CA 94520; 925-671-7070
De La Salle High School; https://www.dlshs.org/; Tax ID: 68-0311262; 1130 Winton Drive, Concord, CA 94518; 925-288-8100
John Muir Health Foundation; www.givehealthjmh.org; Tax ID: 94-2650855; 400 Treat Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA 94597; 925-941-2116
Yellow Roof Foundation, www.yellowrooffoundation.org; Tax ID: 83-0606549; 5805 White Willow Ct, Concord, CA 94521; 925-658-2525