Rodney Allen Watson

Rodney Allen Watson, age 69- devoted husband, father, granddad, and brother - passed away on June 27, 2026 in Wichita, Kansas. Rod was born April 11, 1957 to Fern Watson in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Rod grew up in Matheson, CO and attended Simla schools, graduating in 1975. He often shared fond memories of his childhood, tending the family’s hogs and working at his Granddad’s wheat elevator. He experienced all the adventures that growing up in a small Colorado town had to offer — all while forging countless lifelong friendships along the way. He was a bit of a hellion as a teenager, which he had no problem with…and wouldn't care if you did.

In the late 70’s, Rod laid the tracks for his railroading career with the Rock Island Railroad out of Limon, Colorado. After the company went bankrupt in 1980, he, alongside a crew of Limon railroaders, moved to Trinidad, Colorado to work for the Colorado and Southern Railroad. There he donned many hats, from fireman to brakeman and eventually conductor.

Wed to Micheli Winkelman in September 1980, they welcomed two sons, Kenny and Andy.

In 1986, Rod transferred to Denver with Burlington Northern, where he and his family settled in nearby Strasburg. In 1994 he would become a locomotive engineer — a role he thoroughly enjoyed.

Finally, after nearly four decades of railroad service, he would retire in 2017 from the Burlington Northern Santa Fe as a Yardmaster in the Denver Yard.

During these years, he connected with many wonderful people, including some unforgettable characters. He treasured the friendships he made along the way, many of which endured throughout his life.

On a typical day, you could catch Rod tinkering in the garage (ZZ Top playing in the background), wood working, growing his legendary 300 lb pumpkins and tending to his memorable vegetable and flower gardens. Rod was the definition of a handyman. There wasn’t much he wouldn’t tackle. Landscaping, plumbing, electrical work, vehicle repairs—you name it, he would figure it out.

On clear nights, you might find him behind his telescope looking at the moon or laying in a lawn chair stargazing—a hobby inspired by his granddad who’d wake him to watch the Apollo space missions on television. From this, he took interest in learning about astronomy (Carl Sagan was the man). His passion for the stars lives on in his sons today as well as their shared love for the Broncos, Avalanche and Nuggets. He loved to fish, camp, ride ATV’s and generally would rather be outside. Even if it meant mowing or burning tumble weeds. Some might even call the things he enjoyed outdoors “work”.

Rod and Micheli moved to Kansas in 2016/2017, respectively, to be near their children and grandchildren. Whether cheering from the sidelines at his sons’ activities or grandsons’ soccer games, lending a helping hand, handing down important knowledge or life skills or simply being present, Rod rarely missed an opportunity to support and provide for his family. Rod’s family was the center of his universe.

He will be forever loved and missed.

Rod is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Micheli; sons Kenny (Colette) and Andy (Jonnie); grandsons Gage and Kale; brother Wes; many cousins, extended family members, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his granddad, Harry E. Watson; grandmother, Mary M. Watson; mother, Fern A. Monks; stepfather, Donald R. Monks; uncles, Calvin, Harry, Marvin Ray, Ronald, and Donald; and aunts, Margaret, Betty Lou, June, Evelyn, and Julia.

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to:

Colorado Wildlife Federation

303 E. 17th Avenue, Suite 230

Denver, CO 80203

National Audubon Society

Or your local humane society.