Edgar B. Watkins, age 87, a longtime resident of Portage passed away on April 28, 2011. He was born on May 8, 1923 in Tuttle, Kentucky the son of Bige and Lucy Watkins. Edgar proudly served his country in the United States Army during World War II. He was married to Irene Johnson on October 5, 1946 in Barbersville, Kentucky. Edgar worked for American Bridge as a welder and retired after 22 years of service. Edgar was a member of the Church of Christ and a member of the Steelworkers Union. He enjoyed working on engines, repairing lawn mowers, and was a collector of many things. Edgar is survived by his loving family; wife Irene Watkins, Portage, sons Ray Watkins, Ft. Myers, FL, Ralph Watkins, Portage, Roger Watkins, Valparaiso, and Bryan (Heather) Watkins, Valparaiso, daughters Patricia (Ken) Giertz, Kingman, Brenda (Marvin) Maupin, Murfreesboro, TN, Kathy Watkins, Portage, Carolyn Katz, Hallsville, TX, Donna (Frank) Bell, Lisbon, OH, Debra Bitikofer, Portage, and Renee (John) Chappell, Portage, 25 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, and other loving family and dear friends. Edgar was preceded in death by his parents, grandson Chad Katz, brothers Dan, Ralph, and Alvie Watkins, and nephews Michael and Benny Watkins. A visitation for Edgar Watkins will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 pm on Sunday, May 1, 2011 at Rees Funeral Home – Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Avenue, Portage. A funeral service for Edgar Watkins will be held at 10:00 am on Monday, May 2, 2011 at Rees Funeral Home with his son-in-law Marvin Maupin, officiating. Burial will be at McCool Cemetery. Memorials in Edgar's memory may be made to the V.N.A. Hospice. For further information please call Rees Funeral Home at (219) 762-3013.