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1928
2014
Passed away in Petaluma on January, 3, 2014 at the age of 85. Cherished and survived by his two children: Dana Adkins of Palm Springs, and Clay Adkins of West Hollywood, as well as his former wife and advocate caregiver, Gwen Adkins of Santa Rosa.
Ted was born in Greeneville, Mississippi on February 19, 1928, but grew up in the Lumber Mill community of Tuolumne, CA, where he was a star athlete, earning him a full athletic scholarship to the College of the Pacific in Stockton (now U.O.P.). During his college career, he excelled in football, basketball & boxing, however, his favorite sport was baseball, and was chosen captain of the California All Star Team. Later, he was inducted into their Baseball "Hall of Fame". He also developed lifetime friendships with his Rho Lambda Phi (Rhizomia) Fraternity Brothers.
After graduating with a BA Degree in 1951, he signed with the Pittsburg Pirates, as one of the few left handed first basemen in professional baseball, and at one time had a better batting average than Mickey Mantle. This was interrupted by his military commitment, but luckily while serving as a Lieutenant, he had the opportunity to play and manage their baseball team, which included some of America's best ball players. Ted also assisted the team doctor, finding it extremely interesting and enjoyable to help his teammates recover from injuries. The doctor eventually encouraged him to consider the field of physical therapy.
Upon being discharged, he resumed his career with the Pirates, but after a few years, when they wanted him to move and manage the "Hollywood Stars", he wondered if it was time to "hang 'em up", even though his friend and teammate, Chuck Conners, assured him that they would get into the movies. As we all know, that did happen for Chuck, but in spite of a few regrets, Ted decided to go back to school, and entered the Physical Therapy Program at UC Medical Center.
After completion, he moved to Santa Rosa to work for Welch & Techmeyer, and in 1958 married one of his college "Sweethearts", Gwen Shepherd. While living in Santa Rosa, they had two children, Dana and Clay, but moved to Petaluma in 1966, where Ted established his own private Physical Therapy Practice which lasted almost 40 years. In 1970, Gwen designed a "landmark" home around a rock quarry in West Petaluma, which the family loved and enjoyed for many years.
Ted was always active in his community, serving as Presidents of the 20/30 Club in Santa Rosa and the Petaluma Rotary Club. He was a member of the Elks Club, Masonic Lodge, Santa Rosa Scottish Rite, and SIRS, with whom he enjoyed many trips. He was an assistant coach for his daughter's Softball and his son's Little League Teams, and having been born with a great tenor voice, he performed in several of the Harmoneer's and Harmonette's Musicals. An avid sportsman, Ted enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, tennis, boating and skiing. He also enjoyed traveling the world, attending many medical conferences to constantly educate himself, both personally and professionally.and for a time, he enjoyed being a Dance Escort on cruise ships.
Ted was easy on the eyes, with a fun loving and dynamic personality. This father and friend will be truly missed.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at PARENT-SORENSEN MORTUARY & CREMATORY, 850 Keokuk St., Petaluma, CA. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Petaluma, 416 Payran St., Petaluma, CA 94952.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Dear Dana and Clay,
I am so very for your loss, your Dad will be greatly missed. I will always remember his kindness and his wonderful smile.
Jill (Brooks) Romano
February 2, 2014
You are in my thoughts & prayers. Let the God of all comfort, comfort you by drawing close to him. (James 4:8)
January 19, 2014
So many fund memories have been left behind for many to cherish. May you find comfort in knowing that one day old age will be a thing of the past in the very near future. (Job 33:25)
jd
January 17, 2014
Sonny always brightened the atmosphere when he showed up at the annual MAQ gatherings. He'll be missed by all.
Reed Sorensen
January 13, 2014
Gwen, Dana, and Clay,
We are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
John and Mary Jean Bruce
Mary Jean Bruce
January 10, 2014
I had the honor of being one of Ted's caregivers. He truly was a blessing for me during my journey. We used to sing along with his Michael Buble' CD's as well as talk about all his baseball years and fun. Sometimes too much fun. I would make sure that I was a little ray of sunshine when I walked into his door as well as he was for me. I will miss you Teddy but I will always remember our good times and inspirational conversations. See ya someday up in heaven :-)Melissa Byrd
Melissa Byrd
January 8, 2014
Dana, Clay and Gwen, I am sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers go out to you in your time of sadness.
Jill Jones
January 8, 2014
Dana & Clay -- I am so sorry to learn of your dads passing. Both of you and your mom are in our prayers. Like your dad, you are both loved by so many. As hard as it is, may knowing that so many people are loving you and thinking of you give you some comfort. May your dad rest in eternal peace and may the many wonderful memories you have of him always fill your hearts with happiness. Hugs!!!
Melody Packett-Souza
January 7, 2014
Dana & Clay,
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you find comfort in the wonderful memories you have with your dad.
Karen (Azevedo) Mocettini
January 7, 2014
Ted was such a wonderful man and has left an incredible legacy for his very beautiful children and loved ones. He brightened up all of those around him and never ever complained or had a cross word to say. You are missed, dear man.
Amy Appleton
January 7, 2014
Ted you will remain in my heart memory here in Petaluma. You loved this town and this town loved you. I am happy to have the honor of being your son Clay's friend. Through him, I was able to extented my experience of fatherly love. I will miss you Ted, but I know your spirit will live on through your family who will be telling your stories till the end of time. Love to you Adkins family. And big hug to you Ted in the heavenly place I know you are standing in today.
Carrie Burkart
January 7, 2014
Dana & Clay
my thoughts and prayers are with you, your Dad was such a kind Man he will be missed by many, and fondly remembered.
Suzi Corda
January 7, 2014
Ted was true Man's Man and could captivate a crowd with his knowledge. He loved to fly fish and I spent time with him in Oregon on a 5 day river drift. Truly the best part of the trip was the time I spent with Ted and the stories of his life experiences. I will miss Ted.He always had a smile!
John Thomas
January 7, 2014
Ted was my PT after I broke my leg in '63. He was such a nice and caring man...RIP...my thoughts are with your family at this sad time....
Marilyn Myers Wise
January 6, 2014
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Parent-Sorensen Mortuary-Sebastopol301 South Main Street, Sebastopol, CA 95472
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