Obituary of James W. Watkinson

James W. "Jim" Watkinson, 73, of Iowa City, died Wednesday, February 5, 2014, at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City. Funeral services will be held at 3 pm Saturday, February 15, 2014, at Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City, where there will be a time of visitation from 1 pm until services on Saturday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Jim's memory to Iowa City Hospice. Online condolences may be sent for his family through the web @ www.gayandciha.com. James William Watkinson was born September 15, 1940, in Iowa City the son of Fay and Anna (Smid) Watkinson. He attended schools in Lone Tree graduating with the class of 1959. Jim was united in marriage to Margie Ann Lenz on March 20, 1962 in Lone Tree. For over 50 years Jim worked at the State Hygienic Laboratory at Oakdale retiring in 2010. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeye Sports Fan, no matter men or women. He enjoyed his home, especially the outdoors, caring for his gardens and keeping his yard as one of the best kept in the neighborhood. Jim for years bowled in the Iowa City leagues, being inducted into the Iowa City Bowling League Hall of Fame, enjoying many father/son tournaments with Darren. Jim has also been a longtime member of the Eagles Lodge. His family includes his son, Darren, and grandchildren, Claire and Lucas. Jim was preceded in death by his wife of nearly fifty years, Margie in 2011; a sister, Virginia Krueger; and 2 brothers, Sam and Bob Watkinson.