Robert Elden Watson

Robert Elden Watson passed away Saturday, January 18, 2025, at his home in Meridian, Idaho, spending his last days attended and visited by his loving family members. Bob was married to his high-school sweetheart, Barbara Ann Davies, in this life for 65 dedicated, wonderful years until she preceded him in death December 2, 2022. He is survived by his children: Lynn (Sandy) Watson, Sheri (Jeff) Spalding, Julia (Kevin) Brown, David Watson and Paul (Renee) Watson. His legacy also includes 27 grandchildren and 53 great-grandchildren, including a daughter and grandson that have preceded him in death.
Bob was born in Logan Utah on September 18, 1936 to Elden Meservy Watson and Lillian Vida Clarke. He grew up and found his eternal companion in Bountiful, Utah. After earning a Bachelor and Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Utah, Bob began a distinguished career at Hewlett-Packard. There, he played a pivotal role in developing innovative products, mentoring numerous engineers and taking on increasing leadership roles. This established their first home in Loveland, Colorado, where they mostly raised their family. Later assignments then moved them to Los Altos, California, Vancouver, Washington and finally to Meridian, Idaho where he retired as a Vice President.
Throughout his life, Bob enjoyed a wide range of hobbies, including basketball, volleyball, hunting, a family cabin in Donnelly, Idaho, and flying. He was an avid fisherman and golfer and enjoyed those activities his entire life. A fulfilling day was one that held tinkering, inventing, repairing everything himself, and reading scriptures before bed.
Bob was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and devoted himself to serving others. His service included that of Bishop, Senior Missionary with his sweet wife, and serving with his wife in the Boise temple for 17 years. Above all, Bob was a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. He studied and knew the Gospel, then exemplified those teachings through faith in every aspect of his life. His wisdom and care found him a trusted source of counsel and support to many during challenging times.
Friends and family members are invited to a viewing reception prior to a graveside service on Friday, January 24, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2650 S. Five Mile Road, Boise, Idaho.
The graveside service and interment will be held at Meridian Cemetery, 895 E. Franklin Rd., Meridian, Idaho, immediatly following the reception service.