More By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism. Richard “Dick” Watkins Aug 1929 ~ Jan 2021 A dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and his country, Papa Richard Charles (Dick) Watkins was all of these things and more. Dick’s life began in Turlock on August 15, 1929. Dick attended both Turlock and Oakdale schools where he starred on the wrestling team. Dick went on to graduate from Hilmar High School where he participated in track and football. After High School Dick served in the US Military for 20 years. During his military service, he served his first four years in the US Navy and the remainder of his active duty was served in the US Air Force. During Dick’s military career he had many accomplishments where he worked on some of the most important aircrafts used in the Korean War. While in the Air Force, he was also involved in launching the first satellite into orbit with NASA. Richard retired in 1970 as a Master Sergeant in the US Air Force.