David Harold Watkins

Watkins, David Harold, was born in Chariton, IA on February 4,1938 and passed away peacefully on February 9, 2024, in Minnetonka, MN at the age of 86. Dave is preceded in death by his mother, Doris Watkins (Church) and father, Wayne Watkins. Dave is survived by Virginia, his loving wife of 65 years, children, John "Kyle" Watkins (Kathryn Hammond) and Rhonda Watkins (Nik Wogstad). Grandfather to Kelly (Ben); Bjorn and Mats. Step-grandfather to Kelley (son Wyatt), Brett (Cori and daughter Phoebe). Brother to Pam (Dave) Clinefelter and Bob Watkins. Dave loved sports of all kinds both as a spectator and participant. He was an avid golfer and a member of the Drake University golf team. He followed his beloved Drake Bulldogs, the Minnesota Gophers, Wild and TWolves, but was especially fond of the Twins and Vikings. Our only regret is that he never saw that elusive Vikings Superbowl win. He met his wife Virginia in Chariton, IA. They were married in 1959. The newlyweds moved to Des Moines where he finished college at Drake University. Dave went into medical sales with Becton Dickinson where he stayed for 30 years. Dave and Ginny built their first home in Des Moines in 1965. In 1971 he was transferred to Minnesota. Throughout the 52 years in their Minnetonka home they raised their kids, made many friends and joined Minnetonka United Methodist Church. Dave enjoyed the fellowship of his church and was captain of the men's inter congregational golf team for many years. Minnesota also brought more opportunities for another favorite pastime, fishing. He bought his first boat in 1973. He enjoyed taking friends and family boating and fishing all his life, including many trips to Canada. Dave loved to keep busy. Upon retirement he started his second career at Mendakota Country Club as a starter and ranger where he stayed for 25 years. This is where he finally got his hole-in-one. He had a second job in retirement, delivering medications for Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital. Dave loved to travel both internationally and throughout the United States covering 6 continents. He loved spending winter in San Diego, returning to Coronado Island for over 20 years. Dave was very loyal to his family, friends, co-workers, and sports teams. He was very supportive to his wife and kids. He was a great cook and loved hosting many gatherings whether it was soup supper or Holiday meals. He had the gift of gab. A constant planner, he was always organizing fishing trips, attending sports events of all types with friends and family and arranging foursomes for golf. He loved to laugh, tell stories and always offered a helping hand. Dave will be dearly missed, but never forgotten. Services will be held at 11 am on Thursday, February 22 at Minnetonka United Methodist Church,17611 Lake Street Extension, Minnetonka, MN 55345. Visitation at 10 am preceding service and reception lunch following service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Minnetonka United Methodist Church.

Tributes

David Harold Watkins

February 4, 1938 - February 9, 2024

Tributes

David Harold Watkins

February 4, 1938 - February 9, 2024

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