John "Jack" Wilkins

NEW BOSTON, NH – Mr. John Wilkins, 81, formerly of Danvers and Beverly, beloved husband of the late Barbara Jean (Summit) Wilkins, died peacefully Monday, July 12, 2021 at Bedford Hills Center in Bedford, NH.

 Born in Danvers he was the son of the late William Wilkins and Mary (LaBorde) Wilkins.  He was raised and educated in Danvers and was a graduate of the former Holten High School where he was a standout athlete on their Baseball team.

An honorably discharged veteran, Jack proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam Era, stationed in Hawaii.

Mr. Wilkins had been employed as a truck driver by the former Preston Trucking Company for many years. He was trustworthy, hard-working and ran the Seacoast Route in New Hampshire, where he was known for dedication to his company and customers.

A loving husband, father and grandfather, Jack was a giant of a man with a tough exterior and a kind and gentle nature. He was proud to say he grew up in the Danversport area where he made many life-long friends. He was always there for his family and was very proud of his children and grandchildren and would do anything for them.  He will be deeply missed by his loving family and many friends.

Jack had a strong passion for everything that had to do with motors. He was an avid NASCAR fan, and could often be found in Loudon, NH at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway attending races with Barbara. He was truly happiest restoring antique and classic cars, especially his beloved Chevy Chevelle and traveling the country with his beloved Barbara. Jack was also a proud member of the Teamsters Union Local #25 & 633, the Polish Club of Danvers and the Union Club in Beverly and the Preston Trucking Million Mile Club.

Surviving John are his children, John Wilkins Jr. and his wife Janet of Selkirk NY, Richard Wilkins, John Paul Jones and his wife Brenna of Auburn, NH, and Cynthia Carbone and her husband Brian of Beverly his grandchildren, Peter and Emma Wilkins, Nathan Jones and Christopher and Collin Carbone, Katherine Nessen and Allison Wilkins, his siblings, Jacqueline Nancy Kotkowski of Beverly  and William Wilkins Jr. of Danvers, his longtime companion Phyllis Pratt of New Boston, NH and several nieces and nephews. He was also the father of the late William Wilkins and Robert Wilkins and brother of the late Dorothy Maxim.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to his funeral service, which will be held in O’Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (Rte. 62) Danvers on Tuesday, July 20th at 11 A.M. Burial in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Danvers. Visiting hours Monday, July 19th from 4 to 7 P.M. Expressions of sympathy may be made in John’s memory to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.

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