Louis Elmer Watkins

Louis E. “Louie” Watkins

Louis was born Feb 7, 1954 in Oak Grove, Louisiana. He graduated from Forrest High School, Forrest, LA. His family moved multiple times so he attended schools in Louisiana and Washington.

He spent most of his life in Grandview, WA.

Lou was the best of little brothers, funny, easygoing, a bit gruff but with a big smile.  He gave the best hugs. He was a great storyteller, an avid fisherman (his Mama taught him to fish) and a hunter. Some of his happiest days were on his boat either in San Juan’s or Columbia River.   He would have liked one more fishing trip with his friend Mike McDonald of Sekiu.

He had a great work ethic; he believed in a job well and he mentored others on the job site. He retired, due to health issues, from Hanford as a Well Driller.

He was preceded in death by parents Virgie Williams (mother) Watkins and Kelly Watkins (father) and a niece Shelly A. Watkins.

He is survived by his partner and wife of 38 years Joan Johnson. Brother Kenneth (Norma) Watkins of Spokane, WA and their children Kelly Hart and Ken Jr.

Grandchildren Amy and Sam Hart, Brother Terry (Karen) of Severance, CO and their children Emily (Jon Bergum) and Kevin, Grandchildren Delilah and Charlotte Bergum

Sister: Edith (Jim) McGhuey of Grandview, WA, Brother: Jim (JC) (Sharon) of Maple Valley, WA, Sister: Nancy (Wayne Gardener) of Ephrata, WA.

To friends and neighbors, who came to support Lou and later when Joan was in the hospital, we offer our heartfelt thanks.

A special thanks to Bonnie Pearson, Mary Pearson (Broussard) who cared for her “Uncle Lou” during his last days and Michaela Mann and Mollie Pearson.

To their neighbors, Liall Rivera and Melissa Cisneros, who took on tasks to keep things going a big “thanks”.  To Jack Bottemiller, Lou’s best buddy, and friends Greg Barcello, John and Debbie Gessner, Bobby and Donna Morgan your support and visits were always appreciated.  Your prayers eased our hearts. Thank you all.

At the family’s request, no formal funeral services will be held. Those wishing to sign Louis’ online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Louis Elmer Watkins, please visit our floral store.