Robert Watkins

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Robert Gene Watkins, age 92 of rural Baxter Springs, KS, passed away at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, MO at 7:15 AM on Tuesday, August 27, 2019.

Robert was born in Galena, KS on February 19, 1927 to the union of Leo Bill Watkins and Ida Mae (Rogers) Watkins. 

Shortly after his 17th birthday, he began his military service with the US Navy, service on the USS Olmstead from April 1944 to March 1946. After being discharged, he chose to reenlist, this time serving with the US Army from April 1950 to January 1951. Shortly upon his Army discharge, he enlisted with the US Air Force, serving until January of 1955. His military service spanned a timeframe of nearly 11 years, and he received 7 military medals for his service. 

Upon his return from military service, Robert lived in the Galena, Baxter Springs, and Lowell, KS area for all of his adult life. He worked as a Union Painter, attended the Quapaw Assembly of God, and was a member of the Elks Lodge and the Baxter Springs VFW. He was a skilled craftsman and enjoyed carpentry projects including adding on to their homes. He loved his family and the time he was able to spend with them, whether it was gathering around the table to play cards with friends, or heading out to dinner with his brothers. 

Robert was united in marriage with Dayna “Earlene” Webber on June 14, 1957. They recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary. She survives. 

Additional survivors include three daughters, Jeanne Lynn Link of Galena, Kimberly Sue Watkins of Baxter Springs, and Sandra Kay Lewis (husband, Gary) of San Marcos, TX; three sisters, Doris Adams of Galena, Jane Sturgis (husband, Clark) of Galena, and Mary Jo Williams (husband, Danny) of Joplin; as well as 6 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Ida Mae Watkins; one son, Bobby Gene Watkins; four brothers, Bill, Jack, Ted, and Jerry Watkins; and two sisters, Betty McQuillen and Jean Watkins.

Mr. Watkins has been entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena for cremation. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM on Friday, August 30, 2019 at Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.