Richard F. McWatters

Richard F. McWatters, 85, of Traverse City, formerly of Central Lake, passed away on September 9, 2024.

   He was born on November 9, 1938, in Kearney Township, Antrim County, Michigan, the son of Fred and Ruth (Akins) McWatters.

   Richard served in the U.S. Army Reserve and the U.S. National Guard both in Michigan and Florida.   He loved playing the guitar and singing.

   In 1968, following graduation from North Central Bible College, he was ordained as a Pastor with the Assemblies of God.   He went on to Pastor various churches over the years in Florida, Michigan, and Colorado.  

   On June 16, 1962 in Ontonagon, MI, he married Sylvia Loukinen whom he met at Bible College.  They recently celebrated 62 years of marriage. 

   In addition to his wife, he is survived by 3 children, Tom (Beth) McWatters of Niceville, FL, Cheryl (Jeff) Bass of Edmore, MI, Peggy McWatters of Traverse City, 9 grandchildren, Billy (Nakayla) Werner of Alamosa, CO, Christina (Johnny) Casias of Sanford, CO, Tony (Taylor) Werner of Eagle River, AK, Taycie (Derrel) McCoy of Sanford, CO, Dane Markey of Traverse City, Kyle McWatters of Niceville, FL, Sarah McWatters of Boise, ID, Rachel McWatters of Niceville, FL, Brian McWatters of Niceville, FL, 23 great-grandchildren, and 3 siblings, Ginny Bolser, Sharon (Louie) LaFranier and Donna (Steve) Pirtle.

   Preceding him in death were his parents and a sister Sylvia (Gordy) Rosinski.

   Funeral services will take place on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Mt. Zion Family Worship Center, 4950 Silver Pines Rd., Traverse City, MI,  49685, with Pastor Dan Skirvin officiating.

   Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church.

   Graveside services will take place in Southern Cemetery, Central Lake Township on Monday, September 23 at 1:00 p.m.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

   Arrangements are in the care of the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.