Bill Kurtis Watts

In Loving Memory of Bill Kurtis Watts

October 29, 1952 – December 20, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bill Kurtis Watts, a loving father, husband, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Kurt passed away unexpectedly in his home in Sandy, Utah, on December 20, 2025, at the age of 73.

Kurt was born on October 29, 1952, in Los Angeles, California, to Helen Audrey Challstrom and Billie Donald Watts. At the age of three, his family relocated to Salt Lake City, Utah, where Kurt would grow up surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Wasatch Mountains, which he would come to love throughout his life.

Kurt spent his childhood camping, fishing, and exploring the outdoors with his family. He enjoyed time spent shooting guns with his dad, playing games with his brother and friends, and listening to music. His love for music would endure throughout his life. He enjoyed singing in the high school choir, Madrigals, as well as in the Utah Symphonic Choir, which he traveled and performed with from 1970 to 1979.

Kurt graduated from South High School in 1971. He went on to pursue higher education at the University of Utah, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting on June 7, 1975. He was a lifelong learner, with a deep love for history and genealogy, which he spent many hours researching in his later years.

On June 26, 1975, Kurt married Margaret Susan Holdaway, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Together, they raised six children in Sandy, Utah, where they created a warm and loving home. Kurt's dedication to his family was unparalleled—he lived for his loved ones, always putting their needs and happiness above all else. He cherished every moment spent with his children and, later, his grandchildren, whom he adored.

Kurt spent 37 years working for Mountain Fuel Supply and various associated Questar companies, retiring in 2012. He was well-respected by his colleagues, and many of his co-workers became lifelong friends. His work ethic, integrity, and sense of humor made him a beloved figure in the workplace.

Kurt was a convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, joining the faith at the age of 24. He found joy in service and served faithfully in many church callings throughout his life and enjoyed the friendships with those he worked with.

Those who knew Kurt will remember him for his deep love for family, his generosity of spirit, and his gentle kindness. He was a rock for those he loved—a father who led by example, a husband who loved unconditionally, and a friend who was always there when needed. Kurt's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched with his warmth, humor, and devotion.

Kurt is survived by his wife Susan Watts; his children, Ginny Watts, Nick Watts (Shannon), Amelia Watts, Heather Klepko (Jared), Hilary Lesh (Troy), Chelsea Schwab (Steve); his grandchildren, Hunter, Savannah, Rylee, Aida, Landon, Olivia, Todd, Kensley, Maddie, Myra, Hailey, Emily, Taya, Nora, Kynzee, Charlotte, Kayt, Andrew; his brothers Kevin Watts (Wendy) and Howard Watts (Linda); and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Bill.

A celebration of Kurt's life will be held on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 11:00am at the Glendover Ward, located at 1600 Buttercup Drive, Sandy, UT. A viewing will be held prior to the services from 9:30am to 10:30am, as well as Sunday evening, December 28, 2025 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E 10600 S, Sandy, UT.

Kurt’s memory will forever be cherished by those who loved him, and his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us in the years to come.