Ronald Watkins, age 72, of Rice Lake, Wisconsin, passed away on Friday, Oct. 7, 2022.

Ron was born on Feb. 26, 1950 to Herschel and Alma in Fairmont, West Virginia. His family later moved to Washington where he grew up. After graduation, Ron enlisted in the United States Navy, serving a tour in Vietnam.

In 1972, Ron was united in marriage to his wife Nancy in Washington and they were blessed with two children, Nicole and Ryan. They later moved to Wisconsin where they settled down and raised their children in St. Croix Falls.

Ron retired from the Metropolitan Waste Control Commission in St. Paul, MN. Throughout his life, Ron had a strong love for his family, stream fishing, camping, working on automobiles and tinkering on do-it-yourself projects.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Barbara and two half-brothers, Chuck and Willie. He is survived by his wife, Nancy of 50 years; daughter Nicole Gonzales (Joey); son Ryan Watkins; five granddaughters Hunter, Cayden, Lyric, Sydnee, Rylee and one grandson Gavin.

Ron will be laid to rest with a private interment at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, Wisconsin.

Ron will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family.