Mr. Walter Watkins, age 76, of Hillman, Michigan died peacefully at MyMichigan Medical Center in Midland on March 27, 2023. He was born in Alpena, Michigan on August 14, 1946, to Howard and Muriel Watkins. He resided in the Hillman and Alpena areas for most of his life and graduated from Alpena High School. He was a member of the ISMA (International Ship Master’s Association) and retired as a fleet captain of the Great Lakes. His job kept him busy, and he would often be gone for four months at a time only to return for a couple weeks and be sent out again. Even in his retirement, he was still being called in to steer the ships. Aside from work, Walter loved to ride. He owned many Harley Davidson motorcycles, dirt bikes, and a side-by-side. He loved to go to his hunt camp every year in Hillman and he thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He is and will be deeply missed.
Walter is survived by his brothers, Terry Watkins and Kim (Lynn Jackson) Watkins both of Florida; nieces and nephews, Kyle (Nichole) Watkins of Florida; Nichole Gilbert of Pontiac; Troy (Tania) Gilbert of Lake Orion; Stephanie (Darwin) Steinke of Hillman; and ten great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Muriel Watkins; and sister, Sandra.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. The family has chosen to remember Walter privately at this time. There will be a memorial held in celebration of his life at a later date.
