Alex M. Watson

Alex M. Watson obituary

Alex M. Watson

Upcoming Events

Sep

12

Visitation

2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel)

32515 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, MI 48073

Send Flowers

Sep

13

Memorial service

11:00 a.m.

A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel)

32515 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, MI 48073

Send Flowers

Only 4 days left for delivery to next service.

Alex Watson Obituary

Alex M. Watson

78, of Hazel Park, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born to the late Frank and Margaret Watson, Alex was the devoted husband of Connie (Gennick) for 57 wonderful years. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. He was the proud father of Jennifer (Jeff) McCracken, Tracey (Ken) Steward, Darren (Ema), and Nick (Jaime) Watson, and the much-loved grandfather of Courtney (Brandon) Garton, Trevor (Emily) and Brayden Steward, Maryn, Dylan, and Eie McCracken, Julia Forrester, Carson and Parker Watson, and Griffin Watson. His greatest joy recently was becoming a great-grandpa to little Cooper Garton.

Alex is also survived by his siblings Frank, Karen, and Ryan; sister-in-law Andrea (wife of the late Barry); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.

A 1965 graduate of Hazel Park High, Alex proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1968–1971, including a year in Vietnam. After his service, he poured his energy into his business, Alco Printing Services in Royal Oak and Troy, which he owned and operated for 48 years.

A true Detroit sports fan, Alex rarely missed a Red Wings or Tigers game. He also shared his love of the game by coaching youth hockey for many years with the Royal Oak Hockey Association, where he inspired not only his own children but countless others. Known for his work ethic, quick wit, and kind heart, Alex touched the lives of many both personally and professionally.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Alex's life on Friday, September 12, from 2–8 p.m. at A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel), 32515 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak. A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 13, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice, 5990 N. Adams Road, Troy. htohhfoundation.org
People and places connected with Alex
How to support Alex's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Alex Watson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Upcoming Events

Sep

12

Visitation

2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel)

32515 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, MI 48073

Send Flowers

Sep

13

Memorial service

11:00 a.m.

A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel)

32515 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, MI 48073

Send Flowers

Only 4 days left for delivery to next service.