Benton Watkins

Beloved husband, father and grandfather, Benton A. Watkins, age 96, of Holland, passed away Wednesday, November 8, 2006 in Spring Meadows Care Center, Holland, Ohio. He was born February 11, 1910 to John and Nancy (Osgathrope) Watkins in Saline, Tennessee. Benton was employed with AP Parts retiring after 40 years of service. He was the oldest living retiree of the former AP Parts Company. While with AP Parts, Benton invented some components that were very beneficial to the company. Several years after retiring, Benton worked with his daughter in her Christian Bookstore, "His Place". He was a loving and devoted family man. Benton was a good storyteller and everyone enjoyed listening to his experiences and adventures. He was a 28 year resident of Brighton Ave., Toledo then moving to Loveland, Ohio with his daughter, Gayle for a short time. Upon moving back to Holland he became a resident of Astor House for two-and-a half years.

In addition to his parents, Benton was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Ersie (Reecer) Watkins and sons, Harold "Dean" Watkins; Arnold "Gene" Watkins and Gerald "Jerry" Watkins. He is survived by his daughter, Gayle O. (Jim) Wood of Loveland, OH; daughters-in-laws, Mrs. Louise Watkins; Mrs. Pat Watkins and Mrs. Fran Watkins; 16 grandchildren; 31 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends Saturday from 10:00 a.m-2:00 p.m. in the Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd. (419-473-0300) with services beginning at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow in Toledo Memorial Park.

Memorial Contributions may also be made to Hospice of Northwest Ohio or the Gideon Society.

Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.NewcomerFamily.com