Thomas P. Watkins

GUILDERLAND – Thomas P. Watkins, 67, passed away on Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at the Berkshire Medical Center.
Thomas was born on September 8, 1944 in Albany and was the son of the late John H. and Clementine (Natale) Watkins. He served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War, which he was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, a Bronze Star and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. He worked as a boilermaker for American Boiler for over 10 years, before retiring in 1994; prior to that he owned and operated the Gulf Gas Station in Colonie for over 20 years. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, classic cars and his oldie's music.
Thomas is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Marlene A. (Polito) Watkins. He is the father of Steven P. Watkins of Rotterdam, Stephanie Watkins and the late Thomas "TJ" P. Watkins Jr. He is the brother of John H. (Linda) Watkins Jr. of Seabrook, NH and Cassie J. (Mark) Viscusi of Rotterdam. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. Friday at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie. Calling hours will precede the service on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Entombment will be held at Memory Gardens in Colonie at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101 in memory of Thomas P. Watkins.