John F. Watkins

John F. Watkins, age 89 of Independence, MO & a former part-time resident of the Bennett Spring area, passed away Jan. 16, 2004 at the Excelsior Springs Medical Center. A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a. m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2004 at the Masonic Cemetery, in Excelsior Springs, MO. Visitation will be held at the Speaks Midtown Chapel on Tuesday Jan. 20, 2003 from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. John was born March 22, 1914 in Hiteman, IA the son of David Henry and Sarah Ann Morgan Watkins. John was preceded in death by his wife Ruth, Aug. 19, 2001, one Son David Aug. 1978, one brother, Glen & two sisters, Betty Ann Watkins and Venila Melcher. He married Ruth D. Weller Feb. 21, 1934. They enjoyed 67 � years of marriage. He served with the U. S. Army during World War II with Co. B 70th. Tank Bn. He retired as a Sgt. of the Missouri State Highway Patrol in 1972 after 35 years of service. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge of Independence for over 50 years. He is survived by 3 daughters, Carole Watkins of the State of California, Mrs. Dale "Brenda� Barker of Lebanon, MO, Mrs. Barry "Dana� Pair of Excelsior Springs, MO. Three grandchildren, Misty Jackson of St Louis, MO, Dusty Barker of Lebanon, MO & Danielle Pair of Excelsior Springs, MO. Three step-grandsons Rick Barker & Jamie Barker, of Lebanon, MO & Jason Pair PFC, of the U.S. Marine Corp. stationed at New River, NC. One brother Raymond Watkins and his wife Marge, of Bedford, TX. One sister Jane Monley & her husband Lou of Independence, MO