Leon Dwight Watkins

Leon Watkins, loving father, devoted grandfather, great grandfather and brother passed away on Thursday, June 22, 2023 at the age of 88. He leaves behind a legacy of love, humor, resilience and dedication to his family and many friends.

Born in the family farmhouse near Stockton, Kansas in 1934, Leon was the son of Vernon and Vera Watkins. As a young child, he moved to Denver with his parents and sister, Verda where his brother, Chuck, was born. He developed a strong work ethic at a young age by working at the family grocery store and graduated from South High School before attending Colorado A&M (now Colorado State University) where he completed his degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1957. During his time at A & M he met the love of his life, Peggy, and they married in 1955. Together they built a life filled with love, humor and unwavering support. Their daughter, Terry, was born as Leon finished his degree.

After a few years working for Caterpillar in Joliet, Illinois, Leon and Peggy completed their family when their second daughter Tammie was born. The family moved back to Colorado in 1960 where Leon accepted a position at the C A Norgren company in Littleton until his retirement. During this time Leon and Peggy purchased their family home where they raised their girls. Leon would continue to live in this home for over 60 years.

Leon was a man of many interests. He found joy in golf,(usually!), camping, (always!), westerns, and a good joke. A true sports enthusiast, he was an unwavering fan of the Denver Broncos, holding season tickets since the 1960’s. Supporting them through both victories and defeats, although he loudly and passionately preferred their victories.

Above all else, Leon cherished his family. He instilled in his daughters the values of honesty, ingenuity and perseverance. He was immensely proud of their accomplishments and those of his son-in-laws, Dan and Bob, whom he thought of as his own sons. He never missed a recital, performance, graduation, or other event.This dedication extended to his seven grandchildren, whom he always supported with a beaming smile and words of encouragement. He was so amazed by his thirteen (and counting!) great-grandchildren.

When Peggy was diagnosed with MS, Leon’s devotion to her was unparalleled. He saw barriers as challenges and made sure that they were able to do anything they wanted. They traveled and camped throughout the U. S. extensively. Leon selflessly cared for her until her passing in 2001.

Leon will be remembered as a remarkable man who exemplified strength and intense love for his family, zest for life, humor, and enduring commitment to those he held dear will continue to inspire all of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

A Celebration of Life is planned at a local golf club for family and friends. A private viewing and a graveside service will be held for family. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Leon’s honor.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.olingerchapelhill.com for the Watkins family.