Ivan Watts, 85

Ivan Burt Watts, 85, Glencoe, passed away on Wednesday, June 22, 2011, at Glencoe Regional Health Services.

Ivan was born April 6, 1926 in Armstrong, Iowa. He was the son of Allen Ray and Esther Mae (Burt) Watts. Ivan was baptized at his home, and was later confirmed in his faith at Halfa Presbyterian Church in Halfa, Iowa. He received his education in Halfa and was a graduate of the Halfa High School, class of 1943. Ivan entered active military service in the United States Army on August 16, 1944, and served his country in World War II in the 94th Army Infantry. He was a guard at the Nuremberg Trials. Ivan received an honorable discharge on July 7, 1946.

On June 6, 1948 Ivan was united in marriage to Elna Woods at Gruver Presbyterian Church in Gruver, Iowa. This marriage was blessed with one son, Raymond Dean. The couple made their home in Ringsted, Iowa, until 1962 when they moved to Glencoe, Minnesota. Ivan and Elna shared 59 years of marriage, until Elna passed away on March 30, 2008.

Ivan was a manager for the Halfa Grain Elevator in Halfa, and then became a field representative for Green Giant in Glencoe. He was a member of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Glencoe. Ivan was a past member of the Shriners. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #95 and the Masonic Lodge.

Ivan enjoyed dogs, horses, flying and Twins baseball. He loved to visit with people. Ivan cherished the time spent with family, especially his grandchildren and friends.

Blessed be his memory.

Ivan is survived by his son, Ray (and Wendy) Watts of Alexandria; grandchildren, Lindsay (and David) Hudson of Stoughton, WI, Cory Watts and his girlfriend, Kacie Mercil, of Alexandria; sister, Janice (and Wayne) Schnittger of Colorado Springs, CO; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Ivan was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Esther Watts; wife, Elna Watts; sister, Burniele Madison; and brother, John Watts.

Funeral services were held Monday, June 27 at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Glencoe.

Arrangements were with Johnson-McBride Funeral Chapel of Glencoe. Online obituaries and guest book are available at www.hantge.com – please click on Obituaries/Guest Book.

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