Delmar Ralph Watts

Independence mourns the loss of a dear friend, Delmar Ralph Watts (87), who passed away on the 7th of October 2023. Delmar was a warm-hearted individual who found joy in gardening, sports spectating, and participating in local Independence activities.

Born on August 29, 1936, in the Humboldt, KS area, Delmar attended Humboldt High School and later graduated from Neosho County Community College in Chanute. In service to his country, Delmar contributed from 1959 to 1962 to the post-war rebuilding efforts in Germany.

Throughout his life, Delmar wore various hats, working as a farmer, building in construction (was even part of the Wyoming pipeline), and dedicating a significant portion of his career to the Kansas Department of Transportation as a concrete and highway testing engineer.

On October 19, 1962, Delmar married the love of his life, Mina Belle Watts (Morris) of Independence, KS. Their nearly 61 years of wedded life were a testament to their deep connection and unwavering commitment. They lived 25 years in Topeka, KS, while Delmar worked at KDOT, before retiring in Independence, KS. Delmar and Mina embarked on countless adventures, savoring the sights and tastes of numerous countries and destinations around the globe throughout their life journey, both before and after retirement.

Delmar was the epitome of 1 Corinthians 13:4. He was patient, kind and humble. Delmar's heart was colossal, measured by his patience with people, his deep love for his spouse, and his unwavering commitment to his family. He will be fondly remembered for his generous spirit, eagerness to assist others, his green thumb in gardening, and his knack for tinkering with wood. Delmar even built their house in Topeka, KS. Delmar took great pleasure in cheering on his grandsons during their youth and college sports endeavors. He was simply a genuinely easy-going, kind-hearted man.

Delmar is survived by his loving wife, Mina, of Independence, his son Derrick and his wife Kimberly of Shawnee, KS, along with their three sons Trevor (23), Shane (21), and Andrew (16). He is also survived by his brother Laurel Watts (Nevada, MO), sister Jaunita Schwobe & David (Salt Lake City, UT), brother Roger Watts (Lubbock, TX), sister in-law Nadine Farlow (Independence), brother in-law Bill Morris & Betty (Independence) and sister in-law Janette Bryan (Houston, TX) as well as numerous other family members and friends.

Visitation to pay respects to Delmar will be held at First Christian Church in Independence on Sunday, October 15th, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm (319 W Laurel Street, Independence, KS 67301).

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to "The Journey Home" Hospice Center in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, through this link: thejourneyhomeok.org.