Robert "Bob" Watts, 85, passed away in East Peoria the morning of Monday June 12, 2023.

He was born on June 27, 1937 in Peoria, IL to the late Robert and Hildegard Bastian Watts. He was preceded in death by older sisters Millie and Betty Watts. Also preceding him in death were his loyal dogs Lady Tinky Watts and Chandler Roger Watts.

Robert married the love of his life, Linda Lee Routt on January 8, 1972, in Peoria. She precedes him in death. Surviving is his beloved fur baby Tsingtao Snoopy Garcia-Watts. Also surviving are daughters Amy Watts, and her wife Angela, and Lisa Watts and her husband Matthew Garcia who was the son Robert had always wanted and needed; one grandson, Zane Michael Watts, a number of loving in-laws, five nephews, one niece and his granddog Banana Wookie Garcia.

Robert was a proud Veteran of both the United States Air Force and Army. He served overseas in Korea and Japan. He retired from the Post Office in 1992 after decades of dedicated service. Bob was a lifelong Cubs fan and finally got to see his beloved team win the World Series. He was a staunch Democrat who loved to tell stories of once getting to shake the hand of his idol President John F Kennedy. Robert was known for being a kind, gentle and loving family man. Robert J Watts will forever be loved and missed.

Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory will be assisting the family with arrangements. Cremation has been accorded.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to TAPS No Kill Animal Shelter in Pekin, IL or to the Southern Poverty Law Center in Montgomery, Alabama.