Obituary: Jeffrey Dean Watson

Jeffrey Dean Watson
November 17, 1984 ~ February 17, 2008
Jeffrey Dean Watson began his earthly life Nov. 17, 1984, in Meeker, Colo. He became the fifth spirit to enhance the lives of Keith R. and Kim Watson. Jeff followed Riley Steven, Rianna Lynn, Brian Clark and Brandi Lee to the family. In 1987, Mathew Luray was born to complete the family.
In 1992, the family moved to Grand Junction for a greater opportunity to expand their education. Jeff attended Shelledy Elementary, Redlands Middle School and was graduated from Fruita Monument High School in 2003. He was a member of the Who’s Who of American High School students and the National Honor Society for three years. Jeff also became a member of the all-state choir his junior year as a tenor. He loved music and built his own guitar. He became an accomplished guitar and piano player. He received his seeing-eye dog, Dylan, five years ago and has been his constant companion ever since.
Jeff attended Mesa State College and received his political science degree in May 2007. In September 2007 Jeff, along with his brothers, Brian and Mathew, purchased their first home in Phoenix, Ariz. Jeff was so proud of being able to own his own home. His plans were to attend Arizona State University in Tempe and receive his master’s degree.
Jeff touched the hearts of all those he came in contact with. When we questioned deep philosophical thoughts, we always defaulted to Jeff, who would methodically and intellectually give us the answer we were searching for. He was his father’s hero. He was an avid sports fan, especially following the Colorado Rockies and Denver Nuggets. (Not to worry we had the sports packs.)
Jeff left this world on Feb. 17, 2008, at The University Medical Center in Tucson, Ariz. He approached life with no holds barred. He chose the route of a heart-lung transplant and was so excited about his new life. He received this transplant and fought courageously for this new life. We, his family, stayed at his side in constant prayer for 12 days, on a reverent plane of consciousness. On the 12th day, he could fight no more and we watched him lifted by the angels to his next journey of accomplishment. We loved him then and we love him now and forever. God bless our baby boy. We will be with him again and forever.
Survivors include his parents, Keith and Kim Watson; brothers, Riley Steven, Brian Clark, Mathew Luray; sister, Rianna Lynn, all of Phoenix, Ariz. Grandparents Charlotte Wix, Lee and Eva Dean Watson, all of Meeker, Colo. Shirley Englert Wix, of Florence, Ariz. Numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his sister, Brandi Lee Watson.
A celebration of life will be held at the Far East Building, 1530 North Ave., in Grand Junction, Colo., on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2008, at 1 p.m. Viewing to follow at Martin Mortuary. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. on Monday Feb. 25, 2008, at Highland Cemetery in Meeker.
Donations are being accepted for the Jeff and Brandi Watson Scholarship Fund at:
Mesa State Foundation, 1450 N. 12th Street, Grand Junction, Colo., 81501.