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BORN
1946
DIED
2024
Donnie Wilkins Obituary
December 16, 1946 - November 14, 2024
Modesto, California - Don Wilkins of Modesto, CA has passed away at the age of 77. He was born to Johnnie and Zettie Wilkins in Winnfield, LA. His family relocated to the Modesto area when he was a young child. He was the youngest of 6 siblings.
Don graduated from Modesto High School in 1965, and enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1966. He served for 4 years as a jet engine mechanic.
Don pursued a college education at Fresno State, earning a Masters Degree in Education Administration. His career in education was spent serving as the Principal of the Adult School and Vocational Education for Turlock Unified School District. He resided in Turlock from 1987-2016, then returned to Modesto.
Don was an avid car enthusiast, with a specific love for all things Mopar. Over the years, he collected and worked on many classic cars, but one of his favorites was doing a full engine rebuild with his son, John, on their 1963 Chevy Nova. Most recently, he restored a 1936 Plymouth Coupe.
Don is survived by his four children, Darrell Wilkins, Betsy Swanson (Paul), Carrie Melo, and John Wilkins (Melanie), as well as 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara, in 2008.
The family will be hosting an open house celebration of life reception at the home of John and Melanie Wilkins in Turlock, CA on Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 1-4 p.m.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donnie Wilkins
Sponsored by ModestoBee.com.
Carla
January 20, 2025
My Uncle Donnie, Mom called him Jesus back in the day. Thanks for taking me to my first McDonalds in Portland Oregon so many years ago. May your memory be a blessing to all.
Bob Evans
December 21, 2024
Were buddies at Modesto High School
Maryalice Alberg
December 9, 2024
Don was a very kind man and I really enjoyed working with him in Turlock. My prayers for his family.
Doug Baughn
December 8, 2024
Don was a friend and colleague while administrators in Turlock. He was the consummate gentleman and a fellow car geek. He and Barbara were an amazing couple. Don will be missed by his friends and family. Condolences to all who knew and loved Don.
Patricia Cochran
November 24, 2024
Don was totally for partnership with Adrian´s Beauty Colleges in the ROP program. He was such an understanding and kind man. Don leaves a great legacy of all his did for students. Great teacher and head of Adult Education program.
So sorry of his passing for the community as well as family and friends. He will be well remembered.
Nancy Backlund
November 21, 2024
I enjoyed working with Don (and Barbara) while I taught at Turlock High School. He was both a great boss as well as a great person who helped the business program at the high school. Many prayers for the Wilkins family.
Mary Ann Bloom
November 19, 2024
My thoughts and prayers are with Don´s family. I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Barbara and Don at Turlock High. May they rest in peace.
Jeani Mendes Ferrari
November 19, 2024
From time to time, Donnie and my paths would cross as we both lived in Turlock. He was the same Donnie I knew in high school, friendly and sincerely interested in my life and family. Donnie was well recognized and respected for his work as Principal of the Adult School and Vocational Education for Turlock Unified School District. I´m happy to know he was a car guy and worked on a car with his son. I send my condolences to his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
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