Larry Watts

Williamsburg- Larry Watts was born September 14, 1948 in Williamsburg, Iowa, the son of Stan and Elizabeth "Betty" (Nicholas) Watts. He graduated from Williamsburg High School in 1966 and Iowa State University in 1971. During the Vietnam War era he served in the Army Reserves for 6 years. Larry was united in marriage to Beverly Jean Miller on November 29, 1969 at the United Church of Christ in Wheatland, Iowa. After college Larry returned to Williamsburg to work with his dad at the Lumber Store from 1971-1977. In 1977 he and Bev purchased the Coast to Coast Store now known as ACE Hardware. Together they have owned and operated ACE for 40 years. Larry was very active in the community serving on the Williamsburg Fire Department, City Council, former President of Williamsburg Chamber, City Development Corporation and Elderly Housing. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and served as an elder. He was also a member of A.M.A and W.W.H.A. Larry enjoyed spending time with his family, riding his motorcycle, horseback riding, golfing, fishing, camping, hunting, traveling, snow skiing and boating. Larry passed away with his family by his side on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at his home at the age of 68 years.

He is survived by his wife Bev; a son: Andy (Sabrina) Watts of Waseca, MN; a daughter: Rose (John) Driscoll of Williamsburg; two grandchildren: Jack and Katie Driscoll; two sisters: Barb Zimmerman of Paxton, IL and Kay Frahm of Grayslake, IL; father and mother-in-law: Robert and Helen Miller of Dixon; sister-in-law: Betty (Jim) Engel of Springfield, OH; a brother-in-law: Kevin (Jill) Miller of Dixon and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Sandy McElhenie.

Celebration of Life Service will be 10:30 am Friday, March 17, 2017 at the First Presbyterian Church in Williamsburg. Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 3:00 to 7:00 pm at the Powell Funeral Home in Williamsburg. Memorials are for the First Presbyterian Church, Hospice Compassus of Cedar Rapids, The Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center or Children's Miracle Network. Messages and tributes may be left at www.powellfuneralhomes.com.