Ronald Afton "Ron" Watkins

A Life Well Lived
Ronald "Ron" Afton Watkins was born in San Francisco, California on February 27, 1934, and passed away peacefully at home on July 19, 2014. Ron relocated to Bakersfield at the age of 11 with his mother and sister. He attended Standard Junior High School and graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1952, where he participated in sports and clubs. Many happy hours were spent working with the Reunion Committee for the Class of '52.
After graduation, he not only attended classes at Bakersfield College, but began a career at The Bakersfield Californian which spanned 41 years. He started as a stereotyper and later moved to the Classified Advertising Department. The only interruption in his employment took place when Uncle Sam invited him to join the Army and see Germany for two years. During his time at The Californian, he spent many years coaching The Californian's JBA teams. Year after year, his teams walked away with the championship trophy. He was also an ardent bowler at that time.
He retired in 1995 and settled into a life of golf, cards, travel and volunteering at Elks Lodge #266. He served as Secretary from 2000-2003 and as a Trustee from 2005 to the present. He and Peggy traveled throughout the world, but always returned to their beloved Maui, where part of his ashes will be scattered.
Ron was a 51 year member of Elks Lodge #266 and also belonged to the American Legion, SIRS and Riverlakes Ranch Golf Club. Earlier, he belonged to Sundale Country Club for many years.
Ron was an honorable gentleman and a man of principle who made a difference in this world. He always did what he thought was right, regardless of the opinions of others. Ron had a genuine fondness for people and was a loyal and trustworthy friend. His droll sense of humor is legendary!
He is survived by Peggy, his wife of 41 years; son John Watkins; daughter Jill (Gary) Ault; grandchildren Ronnie Watkins, Katelyn Ault and Sarah Ault; sister Dorrine Mettler and nephews Tim Mettler and Mark Mettler and their families.
Many, many thanks to Dr. Alan D. Cartnell and all the "good guys" at CBCC for their unbelievable care, concern and support. Also, thanks to Dr. Denis Maddox and, last but not least, Dr. Jerry Seydel, Ron's family doctor for over 30 years.
A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Ron's beloved Elks Lodge #266 (1616 30th St.) on Monday, July 28, at 11:00am, with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society, 1831 Truxtun Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93301; The American Heart Association, 7425 North Palm Bluffs Ave., Fresno, CA 93711 or The Banquet Room Renovation Fund of Elks Lodge #266, 1616 30th St., Bakersfield, CA 93301.