Kenneth "Ken" M. Watters

Kenneth "Ken" M. Watters, age 78, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2025, in Duluth,
Minnesota. Born on May 30, 1946, in Evergreen Park, Illinois, Ken lived a life marked by service,
craftsmanship, and an infectious zest for life.

Ken married Linda (Tanula) Watters on November 9th, 1968, and had two children, Gerald
"Jerry" and Laura. They had the privilege of spending 57 years together in a beautiful marriage.
Their partnership was influential to those who could witness their love, strength, and
appreciation for one another, leaving an amazing legacy in their wake.   

Ken proudly served his country in the United States Army from October 1965 to October 1968.
During his military service, he was deployed during the Vietnam War to Korea. His time in the
Army reflected his deep sense of duty and commitment—qualities that would remain central
throughout his life. After his service, Ken would go on to work at 3M, working his way up the
ladder as a Computer IT Manager, for over 36 years. 

A devoted member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Iron River, Wisconsin, Ken found
strength and community through his faith. His presence at church was a source of joy and
warmth to many who worshipped alongside him. Ken also participated in the Mason Lodge, the
VFW, Iron River Care n' Share Food Shelf, Thrivent, and the Lion's Club. A yearly staple of Ken's
was his organization of the Blueberry Pie Eating Contest at the Blueberry Festival. Ken loved to
create fun environments where people could make memories and enjoy themselves. 

Ken had a remarkable talent for woodworking. Over the years, he crafted numerous beautiful
pieces of furniture that now grace the homes of those he loved most. Each creation was a
testament to his patience, skill, and desire to bring comfort and beauty into the lives of others.
Known for his outgoing nature and magnetic personality, Ken was truly the life of every
gathering. He had an uncanny ability to make people laugh and feel at ease. Whether sharing
stories or lending a helping hand, Ken’s kindness and generosity left a lasting impression on
everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Watters; his sister, Janelle Armbruster, his son, Gerald
Watters and daughter-in-law Debra Watters; his daughter, Laura (Watters) Sanderson and son-
in-law Matthew Sanderson; grandchildren, Shelby Sanderson (Matthew Davis), Hunter
Sanderson, Anna Sanderson (Matthew Lolwing), Kirk Keffer (Tracy Keffer), Jacob Watters, Cael
Watters, and Brett Watters; great-grandchildren, Hunter Gray, Frankie Keffer, and Kash Keffer;
brother-in-law, Jerry Tanula; sisters-in-law, Lois Tanula and Carrie Derosia, and many nieces and
nephews, and several other loving relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Avis "Judy" Watters and Lloyd Watters; brother, Bud
Watters; sister, Charryl Murphy; and brother-in-law, James Derosia.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:30 A.M.,
followed by a memorial service at 11:30 A.M. at Our Savior's Lutheran Church located at 68160
S. George Street in Iron River, Wisconsin.

Ken’s legacy lives on through the laughter he inspired, the love he shared so freely, and the
handcrafted treasures he leaves behind. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Mountain Funeral Home of Ashland, WI.