Richard Kent Watts

Richard Kent Watts “Rick”, 69, passed away on February 20, 2019 at IMC in Murray, Utah. His devoted wife and eternal companion, Claudia was at his bedside. Rick was born in Grand Junction, Colorado on the 29th day of January 1950 to Arville and Goldie Watts. He grew up in and around Grand Junction and Fruita, Colorado.

He graduated from the University of Colorado and went on to the Wharton School of Business where he earned his MBA. He married Cynthia Morrison and together had three children. They were later divorced. Rick went on to work in management with the Dupont Corporation where he remained and retired after 30 years of dedicated service. After his retirement and living the single lifestyle he yearned for more. In his search for the “one” he serendipitously met and married the love of his life. On June 5, 2004 Rick married Claudia Palmer in the Salt Lake Temple where they were sealed for time and all eternity.

Rick was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and all-around great guy. His legacy will be his overwhelming kindness and love for others. He always had a smile on his face and a willingness to help those in need. He was generous, a gifted chef, Mr. “Fix-it”, and a fountain of knowledge regardless the topic. He loved to travel, there was always a new adventure awaiting him, Claudia, and the puppies. He especially loved traveling back to Colorado to visit his children and grandchildren as they brought so much joy and happiness into his life. Our trips to Jackson will not be the same with one less seat at the old Bar-J. You will be greatly missed. We love you Rick.

He is survived by his wife, Claudia, sons, Jason (Amber), Zac (Jenna), daughter, Ali Watts (Alex Thompson), four grandchildren, his brother, Karl, his father-in-law, L.W. (“Bill”) Palmer and his mother-in-law, Dot Morrison. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Christine and Mona.

A viewing will be held Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at Holbrook Mortuary, 3251 S. 2300 E., Salt Lake City, UT from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. The funeral service will be held Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at 12:00 pm in the West Jordan Utah River Stake Center, 1380 W. 6785 S., West Jordan, UT; where the family will visit with friends and loved ones prior to the funeral from 10:30 to 11:30 am. Dedication of the grave will follow at Larkin Sunset Gardens.