Craig Merrit Watson

Craig Merrit Watson, 74, passed away peacefully at home on January 27, 2026, with his loving wife and children by his side.

Craig was born November 29, 1951, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Merrit Gaylan Watson and Earlene Shirley James. He graduated from Hillcrest High School in 1970 and went on to join the Air National Guard, receiving an honorable discharge in 1975.

He married Julia Mitchell in 1975 and had two children, Lisa and Ryan; they later divorced. Craig married Marie Blanda Jensen on March 18, 1994, and together they shared 32 years of loving marriage.

Craig dedicated more than 40 years to a career in law enforcement, 38 of which were proudly served with the Sandy City Police Department. He was passionate about police work and served as a mentor and trusted advisor throughout his career. During his distinguished service, he held roles as a K-9 handler, Sergeant and Lieutenant over Patrol, Lieutenant over Investigations, DEA Task Force Commander, and Crisis Negotiator. He was awarded the Medal of Merit in both 2006 and 2010 in recognition of his courageous off-duty interventions during a robbery.

Craig loved conversation and storytelling, and especially cherished gathering his family for Sunday breakfasts at Jim's Diner, where he could share stories, laughter and create lasting memories. He had an adventurous spirit that took him to many places-whether riding his Harley Davidson down an open road, exploring the woods on his ATV, or cutting waves on his boat at Lake Powell.

Craig will be remembered by all for his generosity, strength, and compassion, as well as his unwavering support for friends and family.

He is survived by his wife, Marie Watson; his children, Lisa Watson Keysaw and Ryan (Shelbie) Watson; his stepson, Philip (Chantay) Jensen; and his four grandchildren, Matthew, Hallie, Mitchell, and Owen. He is also survived by his sisters, Cynthia Diamond and Theresa Guido. He was preceded in death by his parents, Merrit and Earlene Watson, and his lifelong friend, Robert Engstrum.

A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Le Jardin, 1910 Dimple Dell Road, Sandy. Friends and family are invited to attend, and casual dress is welcome.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at Intermountain Medical Center and Hospice of Utah for their compassionate care and support.