Keith Watkins

Keith Watkins, died Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at his home in Erhard. He was surrounded by family and friends while losing his battle with lung cancer.

Keith was born April 28, 1958, in Bemidji, MN, the son of Richard (Dick) Watkins and Marie (Wilander) Paulson. He attended school in Fergus Falls and Pelican Rapids graduating from the "school of hard knocks".

Keith truly fit the definition of "jack of all trades". He spent time doing farm labor, general construction, and doing mechanical repairs on vehicles and small engines. He was most happy outdoors with greasy hands.

An animal lover, Keith loved his horses. He could go outside and softly call and the horses would come trotting up to their master. At one time Keith enjoyed trail rides but he also spent time driving teams of horse drawn wagons. He even used his horses to plow up the garden plots. Keith really was born in the wrong century.

A favorite past time for Keith was sharing coffee and a game (or three) of cribbage. He listened to old country music and would be able to sing along with any ballad from Marty Robbins.

Keith was a Watkins so that means he was ornery at times, but he was also kind, generous, and giving. He was always willing to help, whether that meant fixing something for you in his shop or assisting a driver who broke down on the side of the road. Keith would give you the shirt off his back.

Survivors include his loving wife, Leah (Pepper) Watkins of Erhard, his children Matt Buckley (Chad) of Bloomington, and Levi (Sabrina) of Lake George; three grandchildren, siblings Robin Kovstad of Erhard, Cindy Gross of Necedah, WI, Amber Nichols of Spicer, Aaron of Battle Lake, Heidi of Detroit Lakes, Edward of Spicer; numerous nieces and nephews.

Keith was preceded in death by his father, Richard (Dick) Watkins.

A public celebration of life will be held in Erhard in the spring.

Assistance provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com