Karl Patrick Watkins

In Loving Memory of Karl Patrick Watkins June 2, 1946 – September 27, 2025

Karl Patrick Watkins (79) passed away peacefully at home on September 27, 2025, following a brief fight with cancer. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, to John and Alice Watkins, Karl moved to Mesa, Arizona, within his first year of life. He grew up in what is now considered old Mesa and attended Mesa High School. He eventually took over the family business, Watkins Oil.

Karl experienced both deep sorrow and great joy. His first child, Johnny, passed away in infancy. Not long after, at the age of 19, he met and married Beverly. They had a daughter, Liz, who became the light of Karl’s life.

At 21, Karl joined the Dirty Dozen motorcycle club. While he loved working on bikes, it was the camaraderie and brotherhood that meant the most to him. These lifelong friends helped him build the family home where they lived for 18 years.

On February 22, 1982, when his daughter Liz was in a devastating accident, Karl’s life changed forever. From that moment on, he devoted his time and energy to her care with quiet strength and unwavering love.

A man of few words but deep presence, Karl influenced those around him not just with what he said—but with how he lived. His family learned by watching: how to be strong, how to be steady, and how to show up when it matters. He was a quiet problem-solver and a dependable presence in the lives of all who knew him.

Karl was preceded in death by his parents, Alice and John Watkins; his siblings, Norma (Watkins) Pavich and Dale Carroll Watkins; and his son, John Hatch Watkins.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Beverly Watkins, his daughter Elizabeth Watkins, and his sister Aurelia Fuller.

Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com . Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information