Wade E. Wilkins
December 26th, 1957 - May 8th, 2023
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Wade's Obituary
Wade E. Wilkins, aka, “Cap” made his spiritual transition on Monday, May 8, 2023 in Kalamazoo, Michigan with family members at his bedside. At the age of 65, he enjoyed life to the fullest and was loved by family and friends.
Wade, born December 26, 1957, was the second child of nine children blessed to the late, James O. and Shirley Wilkins, Sr. He spent his entire life in the South Haven area. In his youth, Wade trained as a boxer and often traveled around the surrounding areas competing under the tutelage of the late, Horace Arrington. Wade was the life of the party and those fortunate enough to meet him immediately recognized his quick wit, flirtatiousness, vibrant and colorful personality, and his unwavering love and devotion for family. Those who loved him knew he enjoyed a good game of bid whist and an occasional "game of chance".
Wade received his education from the South Haven School Systems. While still attending school, he started his work experience at Harding's Super Market. Later in life, he worked at National Motors, Four Star, and South Haven Finishing.
Being reared in church from a child, Wade knew the importance of establishing a personal relationship with God. Therefore, he did not leave this world without accepting God as his Lord and Savior. Wade loved fashion and would often dress up in fine suits to attend Resurrection Life Ministries, where he was a member under the leadership of his brother, Bishop, Joe Wilkins, Sr. Every time he entered the house of worship, he would request someone sing his favorite song, “Praise is What I Do”.
Wade is preceded in death by his parents, James O. and Shirley Wilkins, Sr.; brother, Michael Wilkins, and sister, April Smith.
Wade leaves to cherish his memories: his only child, whom he loved dearly, Fawn Wilkins; seven siblings: James O. (Patricia) Wilkins, Jr., Darlene (Michael) Batton, Esther Wilkins, Bishop, Joe O. (Letitia) Wilkins, Sr., David Wilkins, September (Ahmmad) Goodwin, and Pamela (Jerry) Mahone, Jr. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, long-time partner and mother of his daughter, Dawn Clarke; exceptional friends; Pastor, LaVan Dyke Carr, Clarence Echols, Quincey Mahone, and Anita Parker.
Services will be held Saturday, May 20, 2023 at Resurrection Life Ministries in South Haven, MI. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. The "Celebration of Life" service for Wade will commence at 12:00 noon with Bishop, Joe O. Wilkins, Sr., officiating.
Wade touched the hearts and souls of those whom he met and he will be deeply missed. Kindly share your thoughts and memories of him on the family's online guestbook at: www.starksfamilyfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel of Starks Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 269-637-0333.
Wade, born December 26, 1957, was the second child of nine children blessed to the late, James O. and Shirley Wilkins, Sr. He spent his entire life in the South Haven area. In his youth, Wade trained as a boxer and often traveled around the surrounding areas competing under the tutelage of the late, Horace Arrington. Wade was the life of the party and those fortunate enough to meet him immediately recognized his quick wit, flirtatiousness, vibrant and colorful personality, and his unwavering love and devotion for family. Those who loved him knew he enjoyed a good game of bid whist and an occasional "game of chance".
Wade received his education from the South Haven School Systems. While still attending school, he started his work experience at Harding's Super Market. Later in life, he worked at National Motors, Four Star, and South Haven Finishing.
Being reared in church from a child, Wade knew the importance of establishing a personal relationship with God. Therefore, he did not leave this world without accepting God as his Lord and Savior. Wade loved fashion and would often dress up in fine suits to attend Resurrection Life Ministries, where he was a member under the leadership of his brother, Bishop, Joe Wilkins, Sr. Every time he entered the house of worship, he would request someone sing his favorite song, “Praise is What I Do”.
Wade is preceded in death by his parents, James O. and Shirley Wilkins, Sr.; brother, Michael Wilkins, and sister, April Smith.
Wade leaves to cherish his memories: his only child, whom he loved dearly, Fawn Wilkins; seven siblings: James O. (Patricia) Wilkins, Jr., Darlene (Michael) Batton, Esther Wilkins, Bishop, Joe O. (Letitia) Wilkins, Sr., David Wilkins, September (Ahmmad) Goodwin, and Pamela (Jerry) Mahone, Jr. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, long-time partner and mother of his daughter, Dawn Clarke; exceptional friends; Pastor, LaVan Dyke Carr, Clarence Echols, Quincey Mahone, and Anita Parker.
Services will be held Saturday, May 20, 2023 at Resurrection Life Ministries in South Haven, MI. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. The "Celebration of Life" service for Wade will commence at 12:00 noon with Bishop, Joe O. Wilkins, Sr., officiating.
Wade touched the hearts and souls of those whom he met and he will be deeply missed. Kindly share your thoughts and memories of him on the family's online guestbook at: www.starksfamilyfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel of Starks Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 269-637-0333.
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