Michael Watkins

Michael "Mike" Smith Watkins of Taos passed away on January 04, 2007 after a lengthy illness. Mike was born in Queens, New York on December 12, 1965. He was educated primarily in San Diego and served in the US Army prior to embarking on a career as a long haul truck driver. He owned Watkins West Trucking and drove coast to coast until side lined by diabetes. He won numerous safety awards over his career and was Excel Transportation "Driver of the Year" in 1998. Mike is survived by his wife, Angela Holcomb Watkins of Lower Las Colonias, his parents, Captain, USN Ret. Richard and Deborah Watkins of Lower Las Colonias, his brother, Commander John Watkins, USN of San Diego and four nephews and a niece.

Funeral mass was held on January 08, 2007 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church and celebrated by Father Larry Brito with interment at Las Cruces Cemetery. He was a gentle giant, who brought joy to all who knew him and endured his health issues without complaint.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association, American Diabetes Association, 1701 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311.