1928 ~ 2017
Oh My! What an extraordinary life! Ardean Walton Watts, husband of Elna Elaine Brown, father to Mark, Marty, Mitzi (Busath), Merrill, Milton, Melanie (Robbins), Margo (Robins,) and Miriam (Stokes), grandfather of 37, great grandfather of 28, mentor, friend, and humanitarian, passed away at the age of 89 on July 21, 2017 from complications following surgery. He was a devoted husband, father and brother; putting family first to the very end.
Ardean was born in Kanosh, Utah June 8, 1928, and grew up in Idaho Falls. He served a mission for the LDS church in the New England States Mission before beginning his studies at Brigham Young University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. Ardean and Elna married in 1951. He studied piano at the Academy of Music in Vienna, Austria and received his Master of Arts degree at the University of Utah. One of his first jobs was directing his own Jazz band that performed regularly at Saltair.
In 1956 Maurice Abravanel, who became his life long mentor, hired him as the pianist for the Utah Symphony. Ardean was later appointed as associate conductor of the symphony until 1979. In addition, he was Professor of Music at the University of Utah and founder of the University of Utah Opera Company, which later became the Utah Opera Company. He also served as the musical director for Ballet West, Pioneer Memorial Theater and chair of the Ballet Department at the University. He has been a member of the Rotary Club, founded the Utah Mushroom Society and was appointed chairman of the Utah Arts Council in 1993. Ardean was thirsty for knowledge.
Ardean truly left the world a better place through his vitality and the energy he generated in whatever cause he was involved. He constantly asked questions and challenged all to look closer and consider new angles, possibilities and horizons. He continually expanded his mind and inspired everyone around him with his zeal, fascination, and love for the magic of the universe. His passion helped many dig deeper into their souls and find the music within them. He nurtured people and all living things. No one left his presence unaffected, and most left changed for the better. He had the gift of making the ordinary truly extraordinary.
A celebration honoring Ardean Watts will be held on Saturday, August 19, 2017 at 2:00 pm in Libby Gardner Hall on the University of Utah campus. We invite you to bring your own copy of the Hallelujah Chorus and join in the singing and the celebration. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Nature Conservancy.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Deseret News from Jul. 28 to Aug. 13, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Ardean Watts

35 Entries

Thomas Kenney

July 22, 2021

He was truely magic on the piano and played it many times in the Stratford ward. Rollar skating from his home to work at the U.

Sandi Clayton Burgess

March 7, 2021

I loved working with Ardean Watts while attending the University of Utah as a soprano soloist. When I sang the role of Frasquita in Carmen he stopped me dead in my singing tracks and told me I was looking like a Sunday School teacher. I quickly changed my posturing and laughed. I loved rehearsing the role of the Mother in Amahl and the Night Visitors. He taught me so much and had such a beautiful passion for music and was always building confidence in all of us who worked under his baton. Love and miss him. Have thought about him for years since.

Don Marsh

July 22, 2019

The Refreshing
i.Our first childhood reminded us
Of where we first began to dream
And where we first began to care
And where we first began to share
The truths of love
And the secrets of hope
Of who we are and
Where it all started

ii.The refreshing of our souls
Is the place we should have started
That forgotten place together
Out of the weather where
The truth of things
And the secrets of hope
Of who we are and
Where it all started is found

iii.Where the Sabbath and the temple
Are the sweetest grapes
The whitest fruit on the great Tree of Life
The breezes and the rains for a man and his wife

The gift of love
And the secret of hope
Of who we are and
What its all come to

© 7 13 19

Lund Sparks

September 7, 2017

I had the honor of studying music theory with Ardean. He was amazing. I have yet to find a reference to mushrooms in any of the numerous theory books I have studied; however, he always seemed to be able work the topic into class without any problems. He was truly unique----a great teacher, and a greater person. He will never be forgotten.

Pam Young

August 22, 2017

Dear Elna and Watts kids,
I attended the memorial at University of Utah. It was so touching and beautiful and great to see everyone again. I was surprised that nobody mentioned rollerskating across the Golden Gate bridge. I have vivid memories of being at your house on Stratford a lot as a child. Espesially for Sunday night popcorn, and jumping on the trampoline in that huge upstairs room. The memorial brought back so many great memories of hanging out at your house and playing with the kids, especially Margo and Miriam. I was sad when we moved away. I have thought about you all over the years. I wish the best for all of you.

Pam Young (Dean and Marie's daughter, across the street on Stratford Ave)

George Zinn

August 22, 2017

Maestro Ardean was always a work-in-progress, who reinvented himself and was a connoisseur of the world. Life was a smorgasbord to Ardean, and his great vast inquisitive mind. His ingenuity for the arts and nature was without equal among his peers, yet he was a true friend to the common people around him. Although I only have a modicum knowledge or interest in mushrooms, he would regale me with stories of their genus and background, to the point I almost felt ashamed and embarrassed for not sharing in similar passion for them. His bravado on the keys was the best I've witnessed. Ardean, you truly have the touch of the Master's hand , and we are a better world for having you in it. You will be missed.

August 19, 2017

Today I was reminiscing and searched for Ardean only to learn of his passing. He led an extraordinary life, and the last thing I expected was this. I still vividly remember his advice from when I was a student at the U. Little did he know that his words would be carried by me all these years. So it is with great sadness that I write. His influence will last for generations.

David Barber
former student of Chris Tiemeyer
former member, US Marine Band chamber orchestra

Ron Welch

August 18, 2017

Let me add to these condolences a memory of his wit.

During the Q&A session of one of the first Utah Opera educational gathering at the Capitol Theater, a man stood and said "On behalf of all the citizens of the great state of Utah, I want to thank you for bringing the Grand Ole Opry back to Utah" Mr. Watts response was a quick... "Yahoo! Thank yah."

Don Marsh

August 18, 2017

It was an honor to walk in the shadow of Ardean Watts

August 15, 2017

Dear Elna, When Maurice and I moved into the Douglas Ward 42 years ago I was so excited to meet the two of you. Ardean's father was my Santa Claus growing up as a child in Idaho Falls and instrumental in bringing myfather into the church.His brother Don took my missionary brother and companion all over Vienna and to the opera.Blaine was my younger three siblings choir teacher at Idaho Falls High School and they dearly loved him. It was special to get to know both of you and to feel the love and kindness that continued down the Watts line. Our deepest thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Thank you for all the amazing, wonderful gifts that were shared with all. Maurice and Louise Ohumukini

August 13, 2017

Dear Elna, Mark, and the rest of the family.

I returned home last night from out of town and saw the news about Ardean's passing. I am sad I couldn't attend the service yesterday and wanted you to know of my appreciation for your husband and father. What a wonderful legacy he left. He was an extraordinarily kind person. He sure was to me. I appreciated being in your home with Mark, back in the violin student days, and always appreciated the one class I had from him, and Instrumentation class. I was horrible, but he made it fun.

There are so many great memories from the Symphony days, and I always enjoyed bumping into him at concerts in our post symphony days. I also greatly appreciated the times we visited down at BYU a couple years back. What a marvelous conversationalist he was, and a true friend.

Like everyone else, I recognize the loss it is to our state for him to pass, but I also want you to know, Elna and Mark especially, that I appreciate your family and your contribution to the richness of our lives through sharing Ardean with us.

May the Lord's comfort and blessings be with you.

Deepest regards and condolences,

Kory Katseanes

August 9, 2017

ARDEAN WATTS - AN APPRECIATION.

Ardean Watts was a force of nature - unique among those I have known for the incredible zest with which he embraced living.

Ardean had more facets than a diamond and the boundless energy to pursue them all in depth. His natural curiosity and powerful intellect seemed open to all possibilities and was forever searching for the next truth.

I know he greatly loved and was loved by his extraordinary family. To you, Elna and family, Patti and I send heartfelt condolences and share your profound loss.

Ardean was quick to see value in others and generous with his support and appreciation. I knew him to be a loyal friend, interested in and charitable to all.

Most of all, Ardean was a kind man who enriched this world and the lives of those who were blessed to know him. No doubt his unique spirit and influence will continue to live on through many generations.

I loved Ardean and will greatly miss his presence among us. Yet I also rejoice in celebrating his extraordinary life and that for 50 years I could call him - my friend......

Chris Tiemeyer

formerly - principal cellist, Utah Symphony & Director of Orchestras, University of Utah.

August 8, 2017

Sorry for your loss may you draw comfort from Hosea 13:14. L Ohio

August 7, 2017

My deepest condolences to the family for their loss. During this difficult time may you take comfort in the words found at James 1:13

Lynn Whipple

August 6, 2017

Dear Ardean Watts family,

Please accept my sincere condolences and those of my mother, Dianne, at the passing of our great family friend.

Ardean has been a special part of our lives from the time that he and Blaine served together as companions in the New England States mission. Then as children came into their lives, our two families blended on many occasions with the Watts children in vacations (Arches and Moab especially) and special gatherings at his home. The love and presence of good music in their home, along with other displays of the arts was so wonderful. And the kids have such great personalities!

I always recall Ardean for his genuineness. He was himself at all times and it was beautiful to learn from his perspectives and insights. Just a few weeks ago he visited with Dianne and shared his thoughts with her and buoyed up her spirits. This was his way!

As this chapter ends for now, please know of our love and appreciation for each of you and for the legacy left by this great person. May you be comforted and supported as you grieve his loss and recall fond memories in days to come.

Sincerely, Lynn A. Whipple, writing also for Dianne.

P.s. We won't be able to support you in the celebration on Aug. 20 as our own extended family is gathering at the same time. But our thoughts will be with you.

Steven Pocock

August 6, 2017

Ardean was the best, most inspiring director I have ever met. When he put together the "Promised Valley" chorus, he would often stop and share an inspiring anecdote, after which we would sing better than we ever thought that we could. He made this world a better place! Our hearts go out to you in your loss...
Steven Pocock family

Adelaide Sinclair

August 4, 2017

Wonderful, inspiring, amazing Ardean!! He was my exciting and powerful professor at the U and my lifelong friend. Decades went by and he never ceased to have great advice, a nonjudgmental listening ear, and the possibilities of life to share. He left us all in the dust with his inexhaustible sense of curiosity and thirst for knowledge. Absolutely everything about Ardean was pure happiness. I loved and admired him. There is less JOY in the world now that he is gone.

Li Chou Cheng

August 4, 2017

I will never forget the time when I was hired by University of Utah. That was the first job I had in the United States in 1982. I would not have had the job if it had not been for Mr. Watts. He was the chair of the department of ballet, during those years and he gave me the most suitable advice and was a precious guide for me during my first years in the United States. He was a selfless, gentle man who I will always remember. His passing is a big loss and I will remember him always as a special friend.

Robyn Shackelford

August 3, 2017

The classical music studied in Ardean Watts' Introduction to Music class at the University of Utah has inspired me my whole life. He made the lives and times of great composers so memorable. I shall also never forget his piano solos and his direction of the Utah Symphony. He was a great gift to Utah and to so many of us who knew him as Professor!

Dave McCallister

August 2, 2017

Thanks for being a great role model for me both in music and in life.

Rest in Peace

Jana Watts

August 1, 2017

Nancy Warner

August 1, 2017

On June 20, 1948, Elder Ardean Watts baptized me in the swimming pool at Harvard University. My mother was baptized by Elder Watts also and my two brothers were baptized by Elder Armand Mauss, his companion. He and Elder Mauss would come to our home every Monday and when we got home from school they had all their "chores" completed and were ready to share the rest of the day with us. We always had a lesson, enjoyed Elder Watts music and afterwards played baseball in the field next door. We were 9, 10 and eleven years old and still remember those days as if it were yesterday. Thank you and God bless you Elder Watts for the joy you brought into our young lives all those years ago.

Dawn Kasteler Butters

July 31, 2017

Dear Watts Family,
I applaud Ardean for being the father of a wonderful family of M's. He was a force in the life of all of us on Stratford Avenue.

July 30, 2017

I remember him and is family s they lived kitty corner from us on stratford ave. His music was sweet to the ears. He taught his family to love music.

Tom Kenney

Todd Collings

July 29, 2017

I only remember him from my earlier years growing up in the Highland Park area, but I am sorry to hear of his passing.

Gordon Childs

July 29, 2017

And so memories from university days to Pocatello to changed trip to Vienna to Utah for you and Elna and all over the west for me and Elaine as we produced music and art and children. Elaine is gone and now Ardean and I will be 90 in October and Elna, my love and hugs to you and your children who may remember me. God bless

Teresa St. Germain Solorio

July 29, 2017

He was a man of music and nature. My condolences to Melanie and all her family for this great loss.

Pymm Chartrand

July 29, 2017

Elna and Family,
What a blessing Ardean was in my life at the U. Having grown up loving opera, when I got to the U he gave me the opportunity to be in and tutored me in thirteen operas even though I wasn't a music major or had much music training. He was amazing.

July 28, 2017

Elna and Family,

Ardean was a friend, teacher and wonderful citizen of the world. I enjoyed my theory class from him and enjoyed the musical experiences he gave us at the U. the semester he retired. Truly creative, he loved life and all people. We have missed him since he left Utah.
----Mary Ann Morgan

July 28, 2017

To Elna and family, I will never forget all of Ardeans love for music, ballet,mushrooms and the most important his family. For those who may not know, Ardean served as the Conductor for Ballet West, in Salt Lake City and on tour. In Kingsbury Hall the only way the conductor could get into the pit was by coming down the center aisle. As he made his grand entrance down the aisle, the ushers would start applauding and then the audience would join in. This entrance helped to start off the Ballet West performances with added excitement! For myself, I want to say, I loved having Ardean and Elna go on tour with us and, though she may not know, I enjoyed having Melanie dance with our company. At one time in the history of the Department of Ballet, Ardean became our Chair and because of his leadership, he saved our Department. I regret not being able to attend the celebration honoring him.
Bene Arnold

Gwen Bartschi

July 28, 2017

Elna, I am so sorry for your loss. I have many fond memories of our association in high school and the time when you and Ardean lived in Pocatello when Merrill was a baby. Ardean is truly a great man and left the world a better place because of his contributions.

Tyrone Gibson

July 28, 2017

I remember Ardean well in his roller skates and rainbow knee socks as he skated his way up Stratford Avenue in Sugarhouse to the University to teach (I assume) - what a long and healthy commute that must have been! I also remember my Dad, James Gibson, going to 6am (woa) study groups along with John Richards to study Daoism or whatever the flavor of topics they had decided. They will both be conducting their Philharmonics with their zest and passion for life I'm sure. Probably comparing notes and maybe even competing to see who has the best notes ;).

My most sincere condolences and love to Elna and all the family.

Diane LeFevre

July 28, 2017

Merrill, and family. Was saddened to learn of the passing of your Father. He was a very great and accomplished man. I'm sure you will miss him deeply. I always thought so highly you you, Merrill. I hope you will receive comfort during the difficult times ahead. (Diane Dimond LeFevre)

Enjoying the program at Summerhays Anniversary

Kathy Schoenhals (Feigal)

July 28, 2017

Ardean has been part of my life for over 60 years. One of my earliest memories is the sight of him hunched over and digging mushrooms out of our lawn on the corner of 9th South and 15th East (after receiving permission from Mom). As the choir director in Bonneville Ward, his explanation of the meaning of the song we were singing, "Consider the Lilies," has stayed with me. My time in Opera Workshop at the U. of U. with him as an enthusiastic professor was equaled by his musical direction in many operas. When I interviewed him in 2001 to get his reaction to 9/11 as an arts, peace and environmental activist, his response was unique and meaningful. His impact on my life was tremendous. My love and condolence to his wonderful family.

July 27, 2017

Ardean
Truly! An Extraordinary Life!
You will be both remembered and missed.
Blessings Upon Your Journey From Here. May Our Paths Cross Again In This Vast Beautiful Mysterious Cosmos.
With Deep Appreciation For Your Friendship All These Years.
Vaughn Lovejoy

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