Steven L. Watts

Steven Lee Watts, 69, of Delavan, passed away Friday, July 2, 2021 at OSF Saint Francis Hospital in Peoria. 

He was born February 18, 1952 in Centralia to Calvin L. Watts and Gwendolyn I. Godby-Watts.  He married the love of his life, Christy Klokkenga, on August 28, 1971 in Emden. 

Surviving are his children, Cindy Jacobs of San Jose, Chelly (Kevin) Braman of Delavan, Steven (Kelly) Watts II, (Colonel, USAF) of Delavan, Holly (Mike) Ravenscraft of Forsyth and Kim Watts of Maroa; 16 grandchildren, Tom (Kerrissa), Austyn, Couri, Tasha, Josh (Emily), Tony, Keenan, Steven III (PFC, US Army), Preston, Jazmine, Maggie, Jacy, Justin (MM2c, US Navy), Jessica, Jon and Jordan; 10 great grandchildren; one sister Tina (Gene) Guengerich of Manito and one brother Sam (Minnie) Watts of Manito. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents and brother, Stanley Watts. 

Steve was a dedicated husband, father, son, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle.  He spent over 4 years as a jet engine mechanic in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Sergeant, with service in Thailand, South Carolina and Indiana.  He earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Award and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal.  In 1975, he returned to Delavan, with his wife, to raise their family. 

Steve loved his family dearly and showed his love most by always giving sound life advice. He could often be found fixing a teenager’s vehicle or cheering, and sometimes coaching, on the sidelines of a track meet, cross-country invitational or softball, baseball, volleyball, basketball, football or soccer game. He also loved camping with family, fishing with his brother and dancing with his beloved wife. He worked at Keystone Steel and Wire in Bartonville for over 30 years before retiring in 2004. Since retiring, he graciously cared for his wife of over 49 years.  

A visitation for the public will be held from 5-7 pm on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at Davis-Oswald Funeral Home in Delavan. His funeral be at 10:00 am Wednesday, July 7, 2021, also at the funeral home. Pastor Adam Parvey will officiate. Cremation will be accorded following the funeral with burial and gravesite services to be determined at a later date. 

Memorials may be made to the Delavan Park District P.O. Box 439 Delavan, IL  61734.

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