Craig Monson Watjen

Friends and family mourn the loss of Craig Monson Watjen, 74, of Bellevue, Washington. Craig passed away on Friday, August 13th after a long illness. Craig was an inspiration to all who knew him.

Craig was born on July 22, 1936 in Pawtucket, RI to Harold and Ruth Watjen. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Peter. Craig is survived by his wife Joan of Bellevue, his sister-in-law Sandra Watjen of Pawtucket, RI, and three nieces from the East Coast.

Craig was greatly admired by his peers and was the perfect icon of the Renaissance Man. His interests were varied and his achievements many. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard in Liberal Arts, a Bachelor of Science degree in Music from the Julliard School, a Master of Music degree in Clarinet from the New England Conservatory of Music, and an MBA from the Stanford University Graduate Business School.

After spending ten years at Microsoft with major responsibility for the corporation’s treasury group, Craig became actively involved in entrepreneurial and venture capital activities. He, along with Dr. Jim Chen, co-founded Light Sciences Oncology, Inc., a leading-edge cancer research group in the Seattle area.

Craig served on the Boards of The Seattle Symphony, The Seattle Opera Foundation, The Julliard School, and The Village Theatre in Issaquah, WA. Craig’s contribution to The Seattle Symphony made possible the purchase of the Watjen Concert Organ. Craig has played clarinet for the Boston Symphony, the Boston Pops, and the North Carolina Symphony.

Additionally, Craig served on the Board of the Seattle Mariners’ Baseball Club, was an avid gardener, and collected and restored classic cars.

A celebration of Craig’s life is being planned. For further information about Craig’s life and to share remembrances, visit www.sunsethillsfuneralhome.com In lieu of flowers, friends may make commemorative donations in Craig’s name to the:

Craig Watjen Memorial Cancer Research Fund

15405 SE 37th Street, Suite 100

Bellevue, WA 98006

425-957-8946

Arrangements under the direction of Sunset Hills Funeral Home, Bellevue, WA.