Tribute Wall
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Juanita Cotton posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
My prayers are with the family. Aaron was a great person. He kept a smile on his face even when he was displeased with something.
He will be greatly missed.
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Judith Rodgers lit a candle
Tuesday, March 20, 2018
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To The Family Of Aaron W who I have known for
many years who always had a big smile and
positive attitude .Aaron was the only one that
called me by my full name whenever he saw
me on the V.A Campus or out in the community.
He never met a stranger and my life has been
so enriched by knowing him. May He Forever
Rest In Peace. May God Give You The Strength
You Need During This Difficult Time.
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Andrew McClendon posted a condolence
Monday, March 19, 2018
Aaron was a good friend for me at a very pivotal point in my life. He would give me rides to and from work, here at Lovell, while I was living in a recovery house. Yeah, he would give me pep talks and stuff, you know, about what not to do ,and how to stay clean. But he never talked down to me, or doubted me. We've been friends ever since. That was since 2003. He helped to keep me soaring with the eagles, instead of hanging with the buzzards. I'm just one of the people he has helped on this journey of life. I know there are countless more stories out there, just waiting to be told. Aaron was a great friend and mentor, (even though we talked so much trash you probably couldn't tell it), and I'm glad to have known him, we all will miss him, and my deepest condolences go out to his family.
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Andrew McClendon lit a candle
Monday, March 19, 2018
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Gregory Gola posted a condolence
Monday, March 19, 2018
I was just emailed about Aaron's death and am so sorry for your loss.
Aaron was a great guy and I counted him as a good friend for all the years we knew each other while working at the North Chicago VA Medical Center.
He always had a smile and kind word for those he encountered.
Aaron made the world a better place for having been in it.
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Dean Spangle posted a condolence
Monday, March 19, 2018
Mr. Watkins would always yell out "Dean Cain!!!" (a reference to the actor) when he saw me. It would be anywhere, outside when he would be driving around, inside the facility, wherever and whenever he saw me. What a truly nice man. He definitely was somebody you enjoyed seeing around campus. It hasn't been the same without him. Condolences to his family and friends.
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Patrice lit a candle
Saturday, March 17, 2018
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Rest in peace my friend! You will be missed.
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John Szarek posted a condolence
Saturday, March 17, 2018
My prayers are with Aaron's family during this time. He is indeed in a better place. I've known Aaron through working at the VA and have known him since around 1989. He has a good heart and a strong belief in our Savior. When Aaron opens his eyes again, he'll be gazing at our Savior.
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Gloria Scott lit a candle
Saturday, March 17, 2018
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Gloria Scott posted a condolence
Saturday, March 17, 2018
I will forever remember your contagious welcoming smile and greeting..."I won't complain". Prayers and strength to your Family and Friends.
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Judith Brantley Wynn posted a condolence
Friday, March 16, 2018
I am so sorry to hear that Aaron passed. He was such a nice person always willing to reach out to help someone. I remember he reach out to help my brother and even went over to another building to talk with him. He will be missed here at FHCC, HR dept. I pray that God gives his family peace that surpasses all understanding.
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Kathleen Dupaya lit a candle
Friday, March 16, 2018
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Jonathan K. Burton lit a candle
Friday, March 16, 2018
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Marion Parham posted a condolence
Friday, March 16, 2018
It have been a joy to know you. My Family and I will miss you at work. May God bless your family And we offer ours condolence.
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Bob Holub lit a candle
Friday, March 16, 2018
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I am so sadden to hear of Aaron passing. When ever I saw him in the hall, or working in the various departments, his infectious smile and friendly disposition would lighten up my day and make me feel proud to be in his company here at the VA.
I remember him telling me all the long hours he worked removing snow from the facility in most adverse conditions and the acknowledgment he received from management with the director's coin he so proudly displayed,.
He will be deeply missed by us all for his heart and humanity touched us all in so many ways.
My deepest sympathy for his family and may God bless him and his family.
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EDWARD CAREY lit a candle
Friday, March 16, 2018
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Debra Coleman lit a candle
Friday, March 16, 2018
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In my prayers always Aaron, Rest in Peace
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Debra Coleman posted a condolence
Friday, March 16, 2018
I am deeply saddened by the news of Aaron's passing. My most sincere condolences to the family.
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JANICE HOOD lit a candle
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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Janet posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
So sorry for the loss of Aaron. He was a great person. I worked with him for many years at the VA. He was always singing and joking and he was very well liked and respected for all that he accomplished in his life. Aaron never met a stranger.
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Mr. T. D. posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Our condolence to your family. God blessings
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Thursday, March 15, 2018
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Lorna Waiters RN Infection Control, former employee FHCC posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
My prayers and thoughts are with the family. Aaron was a genuine and wonderful co-worker
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Rene Kirklin lit a candle
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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Derek Powell posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Prayer's going out from my family to yours. I am so sorry for your loss, Aaron was a great guy and will never be forgotten!
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Arne De la Pena posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Aaron was a "salt of the earth" at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center adding "flavor" to wherever and whatever he did with his professionalism, contagious smile, and kindness.
1 Thessalonians 4:14-17 New King James Version (NKJV)
14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.[a]
15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.
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Dennis McClintock lit a candle
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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To the beloved Watkins Family:
After thinking about Aaron I just wanted to pass along this heartfelt thought;
For many years there was a program on TV my mother would watch every day that featured a famous Bishop. He always closed his program with:
"If everyone lit just one little candle, what a bright world this would be!"
That smile, that always present, warm and wonderful smile;
"If everyone would smile, that bright and friendly Aaron smile, what a much happier and peaceful world this would be!!"
I truly believe he is in heaven right now sharing that smile with all the angels.
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Jacqueline Ross posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Aaron you will be truly miss my condolences to the family.
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Desiree Johnson posted a symbolic gesture
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. May God give you the peace and strength for today and the future. Anyone who knew Aaron knows he always made you laugh. No matter what kind of day you were having he would make sure you had a smile on your face before he left your presence. There is comfort knowing there is one more angel above.
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Roberta posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
I remember seeing Mr. Watkins on the VA campus. He was always so friendly and had a great smile for you everyday. I didn't know him, but he was always so nice. God bless your soul!!
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Dennis McClintock lit a candle
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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Dennis McClintock posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
What can one say about the loss of friend and comrade who meant so much to so many people ? Aaron was truly an unwavering, positive and needed light in the world for his many friends and co-workers. For over 13 years it was truly my blessing to get to see him and talk to him several times a week. His kindness, gentleness and smiles were the magnet that drew so many friends to his huge circle of life. I will forever be thankful that I was one of those friends and that he was a small but important portion of my life. My condolences to the extended Watkins family. Aaron will be deeply missed by all! When we think of him, we need to have a big smile on our face for how he made us feel, the same smile he gave to us everyday!
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Monique Fenner posted a symbolic gesture
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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Prayers lifted to the family. Be encouraged, our prayers and thoughts are with you during your time of bereavement.
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AMANDA COLE posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
This world will be a worse place without him. He was absolutely one of my favorite people at North Chicago VA. He always had a smile and asked about my day every time I passed him. I'm heart broken for us all left behind. What a beautiful man and smile. He will be missed everyday.
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Veronica Watkins lit a candle
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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Veronica Watkins posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
I will always remember when Aaron and I met the first time when I worked in the Physical Therapy department- he was one of the first coworkers I spoke to outside of my own department. He recognized that we had the same last name and would yell out an ultra friendly "Hi, sister!" from down the hall anytime he saw me. He always came by to check on how my kids were. I missed him when he retired and was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He was truly a light in this life and an inspiration to everyone around him. Aaron showed us that no matter how difficult things may get- how insurmountable they seem- we can get through it and succeed and be a leader, maybe even without knowing you have followers. My sincere condolences go out to his loved ones.
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Monique Fenner posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
One of the most friendliest people here at Lovell FHCC. While passing by my office one day, I was moving some stuff around...when I heard a voice say...."what are you trying to move in this pill box of an office", he called it. But he went one step further, dropped what he was doing to offer his help. Him and a couple of guys from the office were then able to move a filing cabinet around in my office. From that point on, he always made it a point when in my neck of the woods to check on me and make sure I was not moving anything heavy. You never knew what he was going to say, but he always said it with a smile. Mr. Aaron....you will surely be missed. To the family: My deepest condolences. May the comfort of the Lord be with you during this time.
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Elaine Yildiz PA posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Heartfelt condolences to the family. I would often pass Mr. Watkins in the hall and his smile truly made anyone's day. He had a zest for life and made this world a little brighter by his presence. May he fly high. God bless you all at this time of loss.
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Paulette Schuster posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Dear Family:
Aaron was a wonderful man. He was always ready with a smile, an encouraging word and a helping hand. I am saddened by his passing and will miss him very much.
Bless you all,
Paulette Schuster, MSA
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Seth Walker lit a candle
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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RIP Aaron, your presence and personality will be greatly missed.
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Andrea Skillman posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
I just wanted Aaron's family know what a kind hearted positive man he was every day at FHCC. Despite all his trials in earlier life and making bad choices he clearly was committed in his mind, body in soul to make up for any transgressions earlier. He was one man who hit rock bottom and learned to make something very positive from it. He spread his smile and kindness to any and all who would listen. He was a bright star in a negative culture and made my day brighter on more than one occasion. I will not be able to make the memorial, but God Bless his family for the strength to follow his journey with him.
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Karen Brodlo posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
So sorry to hear of your lose! Heartfelt prayers to the family.
When I worked in the patient advocate office, he would stop by just to say hi, but he liked the candy I almost always had.
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Kristina posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Aaron will be missed. I didn't know him well but what I did know of him was that he was a kind and caring man. Rest in peace.
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Nanetta Pope posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Deepest sympathy and prayers to the family. Aaron always put others first and made sure jobs were completed. He loved to talk and spoke passionately about his family. I will truly miss him.
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carole woods posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
My sincere condolences to the family. Aaron was always nice and friendly to me. He would always greet me whenever we would see each other at the V.A. He will be missed greatly.
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Lillian lit a candle
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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Your infectious smile will be truly missed.
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Arlena Taylor posted a symbolic gesture
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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Aaron you will be missed.
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Arlena Taylor posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
So sadden to hear of Aaron’s passing. He was such a wonderful person always had a smile and always making you laugh. Praying the family be filled with the peace of God during this time and comforted by the loving memories all have shared.
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Anne-Marie Springer, BSN, RN posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Aaron was always willing to lend a helping hand and brightened our days with his infectious smile. May time and cherished memories ease the pain of your loss.
"The angels are always near to those who are grieving, to whisper to them that their loved ones are safe in the hand of God." Eileen Elias Freeman
Aaron you will deeply missed my friend.
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Tina Allen posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
My prayers and condolences to his love ones - family members and friends. May his soul Rest in Heavenly Peace and God give you the strength to get you though this time of sorrow. Keep his loving memories close to your heart at all times.
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Cheryl L. Russell posted a condolence
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Aaron was a phenomenal man with a heart of gold. I came to know him by working at the VA. I had two names for him, "Brother" because he was my brother in the Lord. (we had many conversations about God and church) and "Snickers" because he loved sweets. Whenever we needed help in our department he and his team would come right away. He would act as if we were a nuisance but we knew he loved us. He would make us laugh. Besides, we knew how to get to his heart--through sweets. Aaron was deeply loved and respected by his co-workers. We miss him. Praying for your family.
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Kris Dreiske lit a candle
Thursday, March 15, 2018
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Aaron was such a nice man. Always smiling. I will miss him.
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LaDonna Dennis posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
I'm sorry for your lost, I will pray for the family and ask God to give you all strength at this time. I remembered him always smiling and being nice to people.
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Janet Callahan posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Aaron was a very special man. I can’t believe he is gone. His smile and positive attitude was contagious. He was an inspiration to others in recovery. You should be proud of him.
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Deborah Safron posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Aaron was a beautiful person and loved by many. It was my good fortune and pleasure to have called him friend. Peace be with all of you. Very respectfully, Deborah Safron
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Stephanie Lopez posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
The first time I saw Aaron was when he was giving a speech about his journey through life and what he has overcome. He had such a happy and joyous persona about himself and you could just feel the pride he had for his career and family. Rest in peace soldier, my prayers go out to your family and loved ones. The FHCC will miss you dearly.
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Tony Smith lit a candle
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
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He was and is a wonderful man.
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Patricia Swindall posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Aaron I am missing you already. You always took the time to say hello, smile, laugh, help. I am shocked and saddened by your passing but i am happy that you are at peace and with the Lord our God.
With all respect and faith.
Patty Swindall
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Carol Frenkel posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Condolences to Aaron’s family. I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Aaron at the VA and never saw him without a smile. He made a point of greeting everyone by name or nickname and always with a huge smile, a song or a dance. Aaron was always busy and would go above and beyond in everything he did. Aaron was a special man, an inspiration to veterans, coworkers, and everyone he encountered. Aaron overcame many obstacles in his life to become the very successful man he was. He will be missed by all.
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Pam DeVore posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
I was so sorry to hear that Aaron passed away. I knew him from the VA for well over 20 years. He always had a smile and a hug when I saw him. He was a hard worker and would go out of his way to help anybody who asked. He was a kind soul and will be missed by so many people.
My condolences to his family
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Avery Dixon lit a candle
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
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When I think of Aaron, a smile comes to my face. His greetings were always memorable. He would always say, "What's up girl?!!" and most often he was singing or dancing. He brought joy wherever he went. He was an unpretentious, helpful guy who truly enjoyed life. My condolences go out to his family. I can only imagine how much his presence is missed.
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Kathy Serbin lit a candle
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
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Aaron was such a special person. He was so upbeat and always had a big smile whenever I would see him. He was a positive person and I feel truly blessed to have known him. He will be missed by so many people.
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Dee Barnes lit a candle
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
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Rest easy battle. your mission here is complete and it is time to Soldier for the Lord.
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Andrea Ship posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
I had the honor of working with Aaron at the FHCC. He was a remarkable man, and I am so sorry for your loss. He always had a smile on his face, and was willing to help at anytime. He made such a positive impact at the FHCC, and he will be greatly missed.
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Mrs. Alma Louvonia McClain-Harris lit a candle
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
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Final Salute to a "VETERAN" from Veteran. Alma
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Mrs. Alma Louvonia McClain-Harris posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
My Dearest Watkins Family,
I am truly sorry for the loss of a great Man in the Family Life. Aaron was truly an wonderful friend and co-worker. He would always have something inspiring to say when he came across your path. He would always shout out my name"ALMA", and tell me to get back to work and put that smoke out; when he see me on the back docks. Aaron will be truly and honestly missed here at Lovell, FHCC.
I pray that the family takes on his strength and continue to be a loving family.
May GOD KEEP and BLESS each and everyone in the Watkins Family.
Peace and Comfort,
Always,
Alma
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Mary Jane Muir posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Aaron always had a smile on his face, never ceased to stop and say hello.
He will be missed by many, my condolences to his family.
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J posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Sending my sincerest and deepest condolences to the Watkins family during your time of bereavement. Aaron was ALWAYS friendly, helpful, kind, and a constant ray of sunshine and positivity EVERY single day, EVERY time I interacted with him. He ALWAYS had words of wisdom, hope or encouragement to pass along to me & I truly will miss him. May God bless you always and in all ways.
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Thadine Quick posted a symbolic gesture
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
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You will be missed my friend... SALUTE SOLIDER!
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Stephanie Lopez lit a candle
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
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Fritzie Lee posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
I am deeply saddened by Aaron's passing, he never failed to say hello each time he saw me and ask about my daughter. I will miss his amazing always willing to help attitude, his outlook in life, and most of all his smile. He never failed to smile even on tough days. My thoughts and prayers to his family, and may he be in peace in company of the Lord and his Angels.
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Mary Schindler posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
My heart hurts for your loss. I worked with Aaron at. FHCC. He would always visit me to grab some candy for the kids. He was always there to assist me with anything that needed to get done even if it wasn't his job. He had a smile on his face no matter what. I'm going to miss him. I'm sending heartfelt thoughts, prayers and hugs to his family. I'm truly gonna miss him
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Jayna Legg lit a candle
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
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Jayna Legg posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
We in the Communications Department at the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center where Aaron worked are so very sorry to hear of his passing.
We loved Aaron! We loved seeing his smiling face so often when he visited us in our department, and we loved hearing him call out our names when he saw us in the hall or outside, when he was driving around the facility in his green electric maintenance vehicle.
Aaron's personal life story is so compelling and so inspirational to other veterans and co-workers that we frequently asked him to share it at public events, including mental health summits and events to honor veterans.
He was always willing to share with others what he learned in his life and how he persevered and overcame substantial challenges.
And he was always willing to help and make sure our Communications message - about the FHCC and how it helps veterans, military members and their families - reached as many people as possible.
We will sorely miss Aaron. We were so honored to work with him, and we thank him for his service, in the military, at the FHCC, and in life.
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Kathy Ladewig posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
I knew Aaron from working at the VA with him for many years. A friend to everyone that worked at the VA, if you were moving your office or department Aaron was the man to help you. He did it with a smile and your move went smoothly. He had a good work ethic and was a nice person to work with. He left us too soon, he will be missed and I wish that he had more time to enjoy his retirement, he sure deserved it. Sympathy to his family and friends. My prayers are with you at this difficult time.
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The family of Aaron Franklin Watkins uploaded a photo
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
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