Stephen Michael Watts

**Obituary: Stephen Michael "Mike" Watts (1948 - 2024)** Stephen Michael Watts, affectionately known as Mike, passed away peacefully on February 7th, 2024, at the age of 75 with his family by his side. Born in Mesa, Arizona on October 1st, 1948 to Harold and Betty (Abney) Watts, his family moved to California when he was 2 years old. Mike spent his teenage years in Tulare, CA, alongside his three beloved sisters, Karyn Kopp, Dotty Martin and Dorma Watts. Growing up, baseball was his favorite sport. Playing in little league as a child, through high school where in a personal record, made 7 RBIs to win the game. A proud graduate of Tulare Union High School (class of 1966), Mike lived and built his life in Tulare County, leaving an indelible mark on those he encountered. He was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, cherished by all who knew him. After high school, he furthered his education in Architecture at College of the Sequoias and in February of 1967, Mike married his high school sweetheart, Brenda Payne. Shortly after marriage, Mike was drafted into the Army, where he served as a Medic in the Vietnam War from 1968-1970. After returning home, he applied his determination and ingenuity and became a builder renowned for his impressive luxury homes. With some foundational knowledge of home building, learned by working with his father, Mike was able to kickstart his career into the contracting world and his name quickly became synonymous with great quality and craftsmanship. Mike went on to build many custom homes all over the Central Valley and make many friends along the way. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Mike adapted to the fluctuations of the housing market by delving into farming in 1983, where he again proved his resourcefulness and dedication. He started out with 10 acres of plums, and from there, the rest was history. He tirelessly pursued knowledge, seeking out the best practices to cultivate exceptional produce and establish himself as a respected figure among farmers in the Central Valley. Working with world-renowned plant breeders to grow and sell new varieties around the globe. Sports were a huge part of Mike's life through his early years up until his adult life. Baseball, golf, fishing, and racquetball were some of his favorites. He spent countless afternoons playing golf at the Visalia Country Club, and enjoyed competitive games of racquetball with his friends. Then even went on to build and develop a racquetball club, for everyone in the community to enjoy. He also enjoyed fishing with his father and made trips from Idaho to Alaska to enjoy their shared hobby. Mike was a devoted family man. He shared 58 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Brenda (Payne) Watts, and leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. His children, Andria Allred (Chad), Debi Watts, and Stephanie Watts, along with his grandchildren Taylor Allred, Emma Allred, and Shelby Schrader, were the pride and joy of his life, along with his many nieces and nephews. Mike's adventurous spirit led him across the globe to some notable places (Japan, Chile, Taiwan, Australia, Thailand, Canada, and New Zealand) both for business and pleasure, yet his heart remained firmly rooted in the bonds of family and community. He cherished moments spent with loved ones, regaling them with stories and laughter, and found solace in the companionship of his faithful canine friend, Harley, who came to visit him in the hospital during his last days. His passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his memory will endure through the countless lives he touched with his strength, wisdom, and generosity. His life was one well-lived and he will be dearly missed by those that loved him. Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Watts, father, Harold Watts, and sister, Dorma Watts. May he rest in eternal peace with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Viewing will be held 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM Tuesday, February 20th, 2024 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. Funeral services will follow from 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM. Graveside services will be held 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Tuesday, February 20th, 2024 at Visalia District Cemetery, 1300 W Goshen Ave, Visalia. Reception will follow at Visalia Country Club. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Stephen Michael Watts

October 1, 1948 - February 7, 2024