Kevin Dana Watson
July 2, 1955- July 20, 2017
Kevin Dana Watson of Walnut Creek passed away unexpectedly on July 20 at the age of 62. He is survived by his mother, Carmen; his wife of 40 years, Rosana; his three sons, Trevor, Dustin and Lucas; his granddaughter, Penelope; and his best friend, Juan Cabrera, who was like a son to him.
Born in Berkeley, Kevin grew up in Contra Costa County, a true child of the East Bay. As a young man he was a stellar athlete, musician, artist and charmer. He married his high school sweetheart, Rosana. They were the epitome of young love in the ‘70s,enjoying vacationing, throwing parties, exercising and hanging out with Rosana’s extensive Italian family. At Kevin’s insistence they purchased New Form Health Club. They owned and operated the business from 1978-82. Kevin became a skilled carpenter building, remodeling, fixing and improving almost anything.
Kevin and Rosana started their family in Pinole and moved to Walnut Creek in 1994. He was heavily involved in the kids’ extracurricular activities and was a mainstay on the coaching staff of the Walnut Creek Marauders youth football team, as well as all the boys’ youth baseball teams. Many of the children who encountered him through sports could attest to his stern, uncompromising demeanor; his soft heart; and his affinity for sharing words of wisdom. His sharp jawline, masculine physique and steely eyes earned him the nickname of “The Terminator” from his son’s high school buddies, though his gentle side would indicate anything but Terminator-like qualities. He possessed an unlikely love for baking and became well known for his decadently delicious chocolate chip cookies. Kevin also enjoyed working in his garden as well as working out, both of which he did every day. He loved his dogs and had a bird sanctuary in his back yard.
Kevin was the definition of hard work. He provided his sons with every opportunity for success and made sure they were well prepared to navigate this tough world with a strong moral compass. He had a knack for making you feel big when the world told you that you were small. He lifted up others through sound advice, a helping hand, or a much-needed reality check. He will be missed by all those who were fortunate to know him, though all will rest assured that heaven gained one tough dude.
Kevin was always helping others. If you would like to donate on his behalf, please support Robert Paylor’s campaign to fund his rehabilitation. Robert is a junior Cal Rugby player who suffered a spinal cord injury during the 2017 National Championship match. His relentless determination to overcome this obstacle is truly inspiring. Donations can be made at GoFundMe. com/RobertPaylor.