Colton Geoffrey Watson, age 16 of Evansville, Indiana, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at Riley Hospital after fighting end-stage heart failure, due to Friedreich’s Ataxia, a rare neuromuscular disease, which he was diagnosed with at age 10. Born with an old soul and a heart full of passion, Colton brought light and joy to everyone who knew him.
Colton’s love for music was unmatched, from The Beatles to Tame Impala, he found inspiration and connection in every note. A true movie and music buff, he could lose himself in the magic of film and soundtracks for hours. His love for video games was another way he explored his creativity and connected with friends, appreciating the stories and challenges they offered. His passion for history and criminal justice showcased his inquisitive mind, always seeking to understand the world and its stories.
Colton’s unique perspective and appreciation for life made him wise beyond his years. He was the kind of person who could make anyone feel heard and valued. His innate intelligence allowed him to attend an early college program during high school at Ivy Tech Community College. He was also a junior at Reitz High School. He participated in advanced classes starting in 1st grade and continued throughout his scholastic career.
He is deeply missed by his father Geoffrey Watson, mother Tammy Schaaf (Matt Gray), brothers Corbin Garrett and Carson Garrett (Maddy Sigler), grandfather Robert Schaaf, and his beloved Canine Companions service dog, Frosty II, and countless family and friends. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Phyllis Schaaf, and his paternal grandmother and grandfather: Thomas and Betty Watson.
A memorial service and Celebration of Life will be held in the next few weeks. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to:
Attn: Memorials
(in memory of Colton G. Watson)
Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA)
533 W. Uwchlan Ave
Downingtown, PA 19335
Colton’s love, curiosity, humor and kindness will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.