It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Garnet Dale Watson, who was born on February 7, 1954, in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, and passed away on July 17, 2026, in Stony Plain, Alberta.

Garnet grew up on the family farm in Cadillac, Saskatchewan, where he learned the value of hard work, a trait he carried with him throughout his life.  He began his career working for the City of Swift Current before going on to work with the Department of Highways bridge crew. He later became a butcher at Treen’s Packers in Swift Current before taking an opportunity to work in the oilfield with Meyers Oilfield Service in 1978. From there, he received a full-time offer with Mobil Oil. In 1989, he transferred to Whitecourt, Alberta. During his time in Whitecourt, he was very involved in coaching his boys’ hockey and soccer teams and also served on the Community Service Board.

He met the love of his life, Vicki, and they were married on June 5, 1976, in Chaplin, Saskatchewan. They just celebrated their 50^th wedding anniversary, Garnet was so proud of the family and life they built together.  Their first son, Dean, was born in April of 1980, followed by their second son, Blaine, in May of 1982, and their youngest son, Jason, in August of 1985. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and cherished every moment he spent with them. Garnet loved the outdoors and spent many summers camping and boating with his family and many friends.

In retirement, Garnet and Vicki spent their winters in Apache Junction, Arizona, where they developed many cherished friendships and became part of a close-knit community. Those winters were filled with laughter, friendship, and simple joys. Garnet loved nothing more than spending time with friends and family, and he was always ready to enjoy a good happy hour.

Garnet had a very outgoing personality and remained that way even during his long battle with cancer. He continued to entertain friends and family and share memories and laughter, even while in the hospital. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Garnet is survived and dearly loved by his wife, Vicki; his sons, Dean (Crystal), Blaine (Ashley), and Jason (Rachel); his seven grandchildren: Hayley Watson (Raymond), Jayden Watson, Kyler Watson, Keegan Watson, Kash Watson, Addison Watson, and Ainsley Watson.  He also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Greyson and Owen.

He is also survived by his five brothers: Arnold, Orval (Darlene), Randy (Brenda), Kevin (Marilyn), and Faron (Charlotte); his two sisters, Cheryle and Ena; his sisters-in-law, Judith and Maureen; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Garnet was predeceased by his parents, David and Doris Watson; his two brothers, Melvin Watson and Daryl Watson; his father-in-law, Herb Reichert; his mother-in-law, Hazel Reichert; and his brother-in-law, Garry Reichert.

His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday August 14, 2026, at 2:00pm at Stony Plain United Church, 5012-51 Avenue, Stony Plain, Alberta.  A time to share memories will immediately follow the Celebration of Life in the church gathering area.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Garnet’s memory may be made to the Light Up Your Life Tri-Community Palliative/Hospice Care Society.  

Light Up Your Life Tri-Community Palliative/Hospice Care Society – Light Up Your Life