Obituary: Sidney Wilkins, 95, Ludington.

Sidney Wilkins

Obituary: Sidney Wilkins, 95, Ludington.

Sidney “Sid” James Wilkins passed in peace at home in Sherman Oaks on Saturday, July 28, 2018 at the age of 95.  He is survived by his wife Barbara Wetherell Wilkins.  Also surviving are Sid’s three children, Cydne Mitchell (Don), Jon Wilkins (Catherine) and Brad Wilkins (Michelle); six grandchildren; brother-in-law Richard Wagner; and Barbara’s children, William Wetherell and Elizabeth Slaughter and one grandson.  Sid was preceded in death by his first wife Jean and Barbara’s son Jason.

Sidney was a veteran of World War II where he proudly served as lieutenant aboard the USS Strickland, DE 333 ship in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters.  On July 2, 2018, Sid was surprised and humbled to have an opportunity to fly in a B-17 bomber over the Lake Michigan shoreline. Fellow veterans and friends also honored him in a ceremony at the Veteran’s Memorial in Stearns Park on the same day.  Sid commented, “I was shocked from the moment that I got down to the memorial. It is a special place to me.” 

Sid enjoyed a successful career as a vice president at Merrill Lynch in the Detroit area.  He always enjoyed outdoor activities, including hiking, tennis, downhill and cross-country skiing and especially boating.  Sid had a deep passion and respect for the water and especially Lake Michigan, choosing to retire here in Ludington.  He owned a number of boats throughout his lifetime, including canoes, kayaks, ski boats, sailboats and cruisers. In his later years he loved to visit the shoreline, marinas and the state and local parks. 

Sid will be remembered as a loving husband and father, veteran and sailor.

A memorial service will be held on September 15th; details will be announced at a later date.

Please share your photos and fond memories of Sid at www.OakGroveLudington.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington.