Obituary

Christian R. Watkins

December 23, 1961 - August 31, 2025

Christian R. Watkins, 63, of Lincoln passed away August 31, 2025. Born December 23, 1961, in Lincoln, NE to James and Anna (Pfister) Watkins.

Christian (Chris) grew up in Lincoln, attending Pershing Elementary, Dawes Jr. High School and Northeast High School. He had a loving family, attending Fairhill Presbyterian church as a youth. Chris enjoyed spending time with family and friends, going out to eat, celebrating birthdays, swimming, camping and going to the farm. Chris’s greatest sense of comfort was the peacefulness of being at the family farm. Chris was proud to have made it back to church, as well as going back to the YMCA for exercise. Chris’s strong faith in the Lord Jesus Christ allowed him trust in the power of Almighty God to take him to heaven, which, in his words, is an “unbelievable” place.

Christian worked as a custodian for 36 years for Lincoln Public Schools. He formerly was employed at Lincoln Journal Star.

Christian was a member of Second Baptist Church.

Family members include his sister Lisa (Chris) Nielsen; niece Melissa Kobylasz, all of Omaha; great nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents and brother David.

Funeral service: 11:00 am Friday, September 12, 2025, Second Baptist Church, 525 North 58th St.

Visitation one hour prior to service time at the church.

Memorials to Crohn’s & Colitis support for research and education.

September12

Visitation

CST

Second Baptist Church

525 North 58th St

September12

Funeral Service

CST

Second Baptist Church

525 North 58th St

Share a Memory or Condolence

September 15, 2025

Chris was always the one with a smile on his face, and with something good to say. I worked with him for a few years at Park middle school. He was a very good man, and I am glad that I had a chance to know him. He was also great at his job, and always gave 100 percent to make Park a better place. Rest peacefully Chris.

– CHAD SCHMIDT
September 12, 2025

Our family was fortunate to share many wonderful times with Chris — from swimming and going out to eat, to attending church together. While we miss him deeply, we find peace in knowing that Chris is now in heaven, free from pain and surrounded by love.

– Aubry, Cody, Aiden, Lucy & Liam
September 9, 2025

Chris was an amazing person. He always tried to help everyone. We’d have good talks about Crohns and how hard it was at times. I believe there were days he was in pain but he never quit. He gave me great information and I’ll always be appreciative of his kindness both personally and professionally. The compliment “He was a good man” describes Chris. Thank you Chris.

– Lisa mischke
September 9, 2025

I am saddened to learn of Chris’s passing. Chris was a ray of sunshine when he came to my classroom at Park, and consistently gave 100% to his job. After retirement I had the opportunity to substitute at Park, and Chris was now working days. When I walked students to lunch, there was Chris giving 100%. He was a valuable member of our Park family and will be missed. Rest easy, my friend.

– Joyce Sohl
September 8, 2025

Working with Chris at Park Middle School was a pleasure. He always had a smile on his face, friendly conversation, and very helpful in making everyone’s day easier. I have nothing but fond memories of Chris and saddened by his passing. Wishing peace and love to his family.

– Liz Roper
September 8, 2025

Chris was wonderful to work with at Park Middle School. I was one of the PE teachers before I retired in 2010 and really appreciated all Chris did to make my job go more smoothly. He was always so kind and helpful. I enjoyed visiting with him off and on over the years. I know he struggled with his health but was really hoping he was making progress. My sympathy to all in your family. May Chris be at peace.

– Becky Martin
September 8, 2025

I loved having Chris clean my classroom. He was always cheerful and a bright spot at the end of the day. I know he had a long struggle with his health and I am sad to learn of his passing.

– Gail Jensen
September 7, 2025

I had the privilege of working with Chris for many years at Park Middle School. He was a hard worker and very kind. RIP Chris

– Diana Jackson

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