Celebration of Life
Le Jardin
1910 E Dimple Dell Road, Sandy, UtahWednesday Feb 11, 2026: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
1951 ~ 2026
Le Jardin
1910 E Dimple Dell Road, Sandy, UtahWednesday Feb 11, 2026: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
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.
I started at Sandy PD in 2006 and worked with Craig until he retired. He was a good example to me as a young cop and I respected him as a man. I am sorry for the loss and will always hold fond memories of the salty lieutenant.
The World lost a great man and even better friend.... We'll miss you Craig
I am so sorry for your Loss Marie. The earth has lost a great man. May you be comforted by the good memories you have with Craig. Hugs. Bonnie Webb
Rest in peace dear friend. So many great memories. You will truly be missed.
I started with Sandy Police Department in 1978. I worked with Craig for over thirty years. I did a lot of good things with Craig and spent hours talking with him. I thank him and I will miss him.
I first met Craig when I was an Explorer with the Sandy Police Department about 1978. He was always someone I could turn to for advice or just to hear a good story. I have always considered him a good friend and will miss him. Best to you Marie. Always know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Craig was an incredible man and a great friend. His kindness and warmth will always be remembered. Our thoughts are with you. Our deepest condolences to Marie and family. We will miss you.
Marie, I am so sorry for your loss.
He was a good man.
I will never forget all the fun I got to have with You and Craig.
A great gift in my life.
I knew Craig through my employment with Sandy City at the City Prosecutor's Office and the Court. I got acquainted with the many of the police officers while they were waiting to get their cases screened. I always enjoyed talking to Craig. He was a genuinely nice person and had a great sense of humor. I extend my deepest sympathy to his family...so very sorry for your loss!
So sorry for your loss Marie. Craig had a big personality & he will truly be missed. May your memories help to comfort you and your family.
Hi Theresa. Was so sorry of your brother’s unexpected passing. He was so handsome and nice. We are out of town for awhile but want you to know we are thinking of you and your family during this most difficult of times. We will be sending you lovings thoughts and hopes for you to have strength to get through this. Fondly, Sandy & Lowell Simpson