Ralph Austin Watkins passed away on April 3, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on August 9, 1955, in Provo, Utah, to Kenneth Snyder and Fern Peterson Watkins. He was the third of five children.

Ralph faced many challenges in life with a positive and often humorous attitude. Born with cerebral palsy (CP), Ralph’s can-do spirit helped him adapt and find creative ways to accomplish whatever he set his mind to—even if it meant wheelchair races in the halls of the hospital.

He grew up in Provo, attending Joaquin Elementary, Farrer Junior High, and Provo High School. He later attended Utah Trade Tech (UVU) and earned an Associate in Applied Science Drafting and Design Technology degree in March of 1990.

Ralph especially enjoyed working at the last two companies of his career. At Steel Solutions, he thrived in a career he loved and built lifelong friendships. Most recently, he worked as a Steel Detailer at Utah Ornamental and Iron in Salt Lake City, where he was an integral part of the team. He contributed to many buildings and schools across Utah, detailing plans for steel and ornamental features, bidding on jobs, and taking on various responsibilities within the company. He was also highly skilled in the setup and operation of the CMM plotter machine. Over the years, he held many other roles in construction and drafting.

Ralph had many interests, including fishing, hunting, camping, coin collecting, photography, gardening, and cooking. He was known for his great sense of humor.

He was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served as a ward missionary and in the presidency of the ward Sunday School.

Ralph is survived by his sister Connie Watkins, brother David Watkins, sister Diane Foerster (Mike), and brother Craig Watkins (Leisa), along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Fern Watkins.

Ralph and his family were especially grateful to the transplant donor whose selfless gift brought hope to a stranger.

The family wishes to thank LDS Hospital Loveland Clinic, Utah Valley Infusion and American Fork Infusion for their exceptional kindness and care throughout Ralph’s courageous battle. Ralph truly cherished the friendships he formed with the doctors, nurses, and staff. We, as a family, are eternally grateful.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., with a viewing from 11:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the LDS American Fork 7th Ward Chapel, 165 North 350 West, American Fork, UT 84003. Please park and enter on the north side of the church. Interment will follow at the Provo City Cemetery. Condolences may be extended online at www.bergmortuary.com.