Leonard Raymond Watts was born February 20, 1942 in Iowa City, Iowa, to Earnest Raymond Watts and Blanche May “Heck” Watts. Leonard passed away January 29, 2008 at his home in Chariton, Iowa at the age of 65 years, 11 months and 9 days.

Leonard grew up in Centerville, Iowa and graduated from Centerville High School in 1961. Leonard enlisted and entered, the United States Army on January 30, 1964. In 1965 he was sent to Vietnam and returned home in 1967. He was ranked as a sergeant. Leonard earned a Good Conduct Medal while in the service. Leonard was honorably discharged from the armed services on December 31, 1969.

On June 10, 1968, he married Patricia “Patsy” Rae Naill in Centerville. Leonard has four children, Brandi Renae, Darci DeeAnn, Troy Jonathon and Maisi Lyne. Leonard and Patsy divorced in 1978 but remained close friends. Leonard was a machinist at Johnson’s Machine Works in Chariton for 34 years, retiring in 1999. Leonard belonged to the American Legion. Leonard enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, fishing, and walking at Pin Oak Marsh with his dog, Maggie.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, Blanche and Raymond Watts, and his wife, Patsy.

He is survived by his children, Brandi and husband, Doug Christian of Allerton, Iowa, Darci Watts of West Liberty, Iowa, Troy and wife, Julie Watts of Russell, Iowa and Maisi Watts and Sam Maas of Oskaloosa, Iowa. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Jared Ray Maas, Hannah Mae Christian, Adrian Seth Watts, Seth Ray Christian & Kinnick Raymond Watts. Lastly, he is survived by his faithful companion, Maggie.

Services were held February 6, 2008, at the Fielding Funeral Home with Pastor Paul Olson officiating. A memorial fund is being established for “PaPa’s Marsh” (AKA Pin Oak Marsh).