Testing The Water by Larry S. Cruikshank

To say he loved and was loved is an understatement, “Someone who never knew a stranger.” His wide circle of friends were considered family to him. He was affectionately known as Grandpa Larry, Big Lar, The Big Guy or the Colonel to most of the community. He loved his yearly pictures with all the local trick or treaters, red liners, his grandchildren, and old western movies. Being part of the community was important to Larry and was represented by his enjoyment for coaching softball and his commitment to the Kiowa County Fair, Little Britches Rodeo, 14 years on the school board, unwavering loyalty to the Democratic Party, road rally supporter and Knowledge Bowl member. Going into retirement, he fulfilled his long time goal of opening a bar where the Windmill Saloon is currently operating. He became the “go to guy” for windmill repair and Rocky Mountain oyster prep at local brandings. Following this, the bulk of his time was spent farming and ranching. Many of his stories came from his unique experiences that included drug busts, cattle mutilations, and local mischief. Another rewarding moment came when he was elected Sheriff of Kiowa County. During this time, they famously became known by the CU Buffs football players as Slim and Stan Watts. His many accomplishments and highlights included owning the largest barbershop at the age of 24 on University Hill in Boulder, CO with his brother and best friend Stan. After Karen’s passing in 2010, he married the 3rd and final love of his life, Linda Stavely, adding RJ and Tyler to the family. She had four daughters, Konda, Shoni, Lori, and Julie, and they successfully raised all eight girls. After the untimely death of Judy in 1972, Larry married Karen Uhland in 1974. In 1960, he married Judith (Judy) Buck and to this union came four daughters, Debbie, Lorrie Lynn, Shelly and Marcy Jo. Larry graduated from Eads High School in 1959. There were four children born to this union, Patricia, Stanley, Larry and Donna Jean.

Larry’s early childhood was spent running and exploring the sand hills east of Eads, where his parents homesteaded in the 1930’s. Larry was born on Apin Eads, CO to Marvin and LaMira (Myra) Watts.

On May 16, 2023, Larry Evan Watts, at the age of 82, peacefully passed into glory at his home in Eads, Colorado surrounded by his loving wife, 4 daughters, and close family. Visitation for Larry will be held on Thursday, from 4:00PM until 6:00PM at the Peacock Family Chapel. Interment will follow at the Eads Cemetery in Eads, Colorado. A celebration of life for lifelong Eads, Colorado resident, Larry Evan Watts will be held at 2:00PM on Friday, at the Eads High School Gymnasium with Lane Gooden and Jim Brown co-officiating.

Testing The Water by Larry S. Cruikshank