Kenneth (Ken) Watkins, 72, Ocoee, Florida was born in West Palm Beach Florida on September 25th, 1943 and claimed his special seat in Heaven on Tuesday, November 17th, 2015 surrounded by his family who will miss him dearly.
He is survived by devoted wife, Gail, of 17 years. His children, Brenda Watkins Abell (Russell) of Tampa, Kenny Watkins (Robin) of Ocoee. Step-son Brian Parker (Michele) of Ocoee. He has 6 grandchildren, who affectionately call him PePa, Christopher (Kari) El Paso Tx., Brianna (DJ) and Alyson both from Tampa, Megan and Erica both from Ocoee, and Amanda from Ocoee. He is also survived by 2 great grand children, Mary and Liam, El Paso, Tx and Callie (who will arrive at any time) from Tampa. Former wife, Linda Campbell Watkins and countless relatives and friends.
Ken was a graduate of Lakeview High School in Winter Garden. He worked for Sears & Roebuck for 28 years as a Service Technician. After retirement, he took a part-time job as a crossing guard for the City of Ocoee Police Dept where he worked until his passing.
Daddy reminded Kenny throughout his childhood, that having a motorcycle was a "death trap" but decided he would buy himself one. (Do as I say, not as I do) On day 1, he forgot to put his feet down when he stopped at a red light and turned the bike over in the intersection, Day 2, he ran under Kenny's pickup truck that was parked in his own driveway and we cannot forget day 3, when he ran into his own garage door. Each incident caused him to get better at riding but also costs him several hundred dollars. The "bike" was eventually sold.
He was a man of unquestionable integrity and lived a full and happy life "so that the preacher won't have to lie about me at my funeral". Some of his happiest times were for family gatherings. He will be remembered as a fun, sweet, humorous, strong-minded, and loving person. His memory will live on in the hearts of many.
He enjoyed spending time at Bass Pro Shop people watching and eating (gross) hotdogs. He was faithful to watch his "church" on television each week and loved to travel. He enjoyed spending time in the Smokey Mountains, particularly in Gatlinburg. He traveled by Amtrac to Maine and often referred to Miami and Key West, where he spent part of his summer with his relatives as God's Country. He also loved spending time with his furrbabies, Mitzi and Poseidon.
The family would like to thank all of those who visited, sent a card, a text message, made a phone call or prayed for us during this difficult time. We would also like to thank Health Central CCU for the tremendous care that the physicians, nurses and countless other staff provided to him while he was in their care.
The family will receive friends on Friday, November 20th for a celebration of his life from 6p-8p. Graveside services will be on Saturday, November 21st at 11:00am at Woodlawn Memorial Park 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL 34734.
It's not good-bye, it's "see you later"!
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