Dr. Henry G. Watts of Winslow, peacefully passed away with his family surrounding him in Tucson, on Jan. 29, 2024, at the age of 92 years.
Hank, also known as “Doc,” was born in Meridian, Miss., on July 17, 1931, to the late James and Mary Peller Watts. At the age of 13, his family relocated to Clatskanie, Ore., where his father was stationed in the Navy. After graduating from dental school in 1957 at the U. of Oregon Dental School, he practiced general dentistry in South Bend, Wash., for three years.
With an interest to work in a small town, he moved to Arizona and was welcomed by local dentists and the good people of Winslow. He practiced dentistry in Winslow for 37 years until he retired in 1997. In his own written words he said, “The one thing I enjoyed in my office was the friendship and conversation with my patients- not only on dental matters, but with their well-being, general matters, and having a happy attitude.”
Hank married Norma Jean Gardenhire in 1957 and they had two children, Jennifer and Zane. In 1977, he married his wife, Arlene DeLeve, and they have enjoyed each other’s company for 46 years of marriage. Also coming to their marriage were Arlene’s three children, Skipp, Jannise and Julie.
The simplest pleasures, a lifelong pursuit of curiosity and adventure, and acts of kindness brought great joy to Hank. He loved playing jokes and having jokes played on him. Hank enjoyed going on car rides with Arlene and friends to scout wildlife. He appreciated coffee time with his friends. He was dedicated to his family and enjoyed spending time at the Watts’ family-built cabin in Heber. There, he looked forward to hosting an annual family and friends “harvest party shindig” for many years.
Hank also enjoyed wood cutting, gardening, outdoor photography and especially working with his hands while spending as much time outside as possible. As an outdoorsman, Hank made time for hunting, fishing, boating, looking for fossils in the Painted Desert and exploring ancient Indian ruins. He was also an accomplished aviator with his private aircraft and an avid reader with a passion for history and geology. He and Arlene enjoyed picking raspberries on the Mogollon Rim and cheering on the Suns, Diamondbacks and Cardinals!
In his early years, Hank was a member and held office in the Knights of Columbus. He also volunteered at Winslow Catholic Charities and was involved with St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish. Hank took pride in teaching non-citizens American history and assisting them with requirements to become U.S. citizens. For years, he enjoyed community service with the Kiwanis Club and helped build the Moqui Campground near the Blue Ridge Ranger Station. Hank always looked forward to the annual Winslow Kiwanis picnic at the Moqui campground while enjoying the company of fellow Kiwanians and their families.
Hank is survived by his wife, Arlene; daughter, Jennifer (Mike); son, Zane (Tina); stepchildren, Skipp (Laura), Julie (Tom), and preceded in death by beloved Jannise. He also has eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 8, at Greer’s Mortuary of Winslow, followed by Celebration of Life services. At 10 a.m., on Friday, Feb. 9, there will be a Funeral Mass at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, followed by a burial at Desert View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a monetary donation to the Madonna House, 213 Jefferson St., Winslow, Ariz., 86047, in Dr. Watts’ name.
“I feel everyone has been my true friends from the day I came (to Winslow). I could have never found a better location than this great little town.” -Hank Watts.
