William D. Watkins

William D. “Don” Watkins Sr. 86 years, passed away July 12, 2012 after a short illness.

He was born in Mogadore, and was a 1943 graduate of Mogadore High School. Don served in the Army Air Corps in England during World War II and later married his sweetheart, Ruth, in 1946. Don lived many years in Mogadore where he was a member of Mogadore Methodist Church, Mogadore Lions Club, and the American Legion. He was a former mayor of Mogadore and served on the Village Council. Don started his career with Adamson United and in 1987 retired from Wean United after 44 years of service. At that time, he and Ruth moved to Georgia where they enjoyed golfing.

Preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Ruth; three great grandchildren; parents; sister, Florence Kurtz; and brothers, Merville and Raymond. Don is survived by son, William D. (Barbara) Watkins Jr. of Mogadore; daughters, Ellen (Gregg) Hagley of Grand Rapids, MI., Patricia (Charles) Jacobs of Omaha, NE; nine grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; brother, Harold (Mary) Watkins of Akron; many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Friday 11:00 a.m. at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 34 S. Cleveland Avenue, Mogadore, Ohio 44260 with grandson, Pastor Kevin C. Jacobs officiating. Burial to follow at Hillside Memorial Park where Mogadore VFW Post #8487 will conduct military rites. Friends may call at the funeral home 5-8 p.m. Thursday.

The family suggests memorials to the American Cancer Society Northeast Region, 525 North Broad Street, Canfield, Ohio 44406.