Robert M. Watkins

Robert Watkins, age 62, passed away on January 23, 2025, after a prolonged illness. He was born in Akron on February 20, 1962, to the late Raymond and Mary Watkins. Robert was a graduate of Ellet High School class of 1980. He went on to graduate from the University of Akron with a bachelor's of Electronics Engineering. For most of his adult life, he was employed by Keithley Instruments. Robert had many interests and hobbies and enjoyed being outdoors, especially hiking, biking and astronomy. He also enjoyed working on cars. Robert loved to travel. He will be remembered by his beloved family and friends as a kind and generous man with a beautiful heart. 

He is survived by siblings Jackie Douglas, Debbie Castor, Johanna (Chris) Cobbold, Judy (Mark) Shenot, and David (Cindy) Watkins; and many nieces, nephews and friends. 

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by sister Kathy, brothers Joe, and Dan Watkins, and brother-in-law James Castor.

A funeral mass will take place at 11:00 a.m. on May 23, 2025, at St. Matthew's Catholic Church in Akron. Interment will follow at Hillside Memorial Park at noon. 

The family would like to acknowledge and thank the transplant and intensive care team of doctors and nurses at the Cleveland Clinic as well as the nurses of J.T. Roger's Hospice Care Center who cared for Robert. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to J.T. Roger's Hospice Care Center (3358 Ridgewood Rd. Akron, Ohio 44333).