Dean A. Watkins

Dean A. Watkins, 72, of Norwalk, passed away early Saturday morning, April 29, 2023, at Hospice of Western Reserve in Sandusky.  

Dean was born on August 30, 1950, in New London, OH, to the late Audrey (Patchen) Watkins and Carl Watkins. He was a decorated track and field athlete at Western Reserve High School before graduating in 1968. Dean was a great patriot and proudly served his country in the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Army. He was a truck driver and a construction worker for Clark Brothers in Oberlin. Dean was lifetime member of the VFW and Howard County Vietnam Veterans Organization. He had a passion for vehicles, especially the cars and trucks he owned throughout his life. Dean was involved in the Firelands Museum of Military History. His greatest joy of all was being surrounded by his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.  

Dean is survived by his son, Josh (Kristen) Watkins of Fleming Island, FL; grandchildren, Elise and Jacob; siblings, Jo Ann (Bill) Haywood of Tampa, Florida; James Watkins of Norwalk, and Tina (Todd) Moore of Norwalk.  

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Audrey (Patchen) Watkins and Carl Watkins.  

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, from 10 am until the time of memorial service at 11 am at Walker-Eastman-Heydinger Funeral Home, 98 W. Main Street, Norwalk, OH 44857. A procession and burial will follow to Hartland Ridge Cemetery.  

Memorial contributions can be made to Howard County Vietnam Veterans Organization, 8313 County Road E. 400 S., Greentown, IN 46936.  

Fond memories and condolences may be shared online at www.walkereastmanheydingerfh.com.  

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