Larry D. Watkins

Larry D. Watkins, 67, of Topeka passed away on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at the Veterans Administration in Kansas City with his family by his side. Larry was born September 20, 1957 at Hutchinson, Kansas the son of Robert and Thelma Barnes Watkins. He lived at Burrton, Kansas through middle school and went to high school in Hutchinson High School and was with the class of 1974.

Larry needed a little direction in his life following school and joined the navy. He served his country as a submariner during his time in the navy and aboard the frigate, USS Ainsworth

He returned home and worked for the Nature Conservation Corps for several summers. He often drove a heavy mower at Lake Perry.

Larry lived most of his adult life in Topeka other than a few years in Leavenworth while working for the VA there. He worked at the Veteran hospitals in Leavenworth as a Pharmacy Technician, Topeka VAMC where he provided transportation for patients to and from the hospital and other appointments. Larry also worked for Kriz Davis Company.

He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, guns, knives, skiing and boating, exploring caves and canoeing in Missouri. The North Fork was a favorite destination to canoe. Larry and Brian would hold big outdoor bar-b-ques in the backyard, as Larry was an excellent smoker and made great brisket. We should remember his two beloved canine friends, Lizzy and Sadie.

He is survived by his sisters, Linda Mulvihill, Topeka, Kansas and Bonnie Wyatt (Clint) of Silver Lake; nieces and nephews, Kelli Wichman of Topeka, Zachary Wichman and wife Lynn of Topeka and Shawn Watkins of Topeka; great niece, Jayla Benton of Topeka; and life-long best friend and “brother”, Brian Renbarger of Topeka.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Watkins and Thelma Ward and stepfather, Gary Ward.

The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 am on Thursday, September 18th at Parker-Price and Davidson. Funeral services will then begin at 11:00 am Graveside services and military honors will be conducted at Prairie Home Cemetery, Topeka. www.ppdfuneral.co