Marion Wilkins

Marion Wilkins, born December 20, 1955 and passed from this life February 4, 2026.

Marion was the youngest of four children born to Raymond and Joy (Green) Wilkins. He grew up in the Clarke County area, attending school in Woodburn and high school in Osceola.

After school he went to work for Jimmy Dean, where he spent 14 years in various roles. In 1989, he purchased his first semi, launching a 31-year career as an over-the-road truck driver. During this time, he was recognized for his dedication and safety, earning both Driver of the Month honors and the prestigious Two Million Mile Safe Driver Award. Marion welcomed five children, whom he loved deeply and was very proud of.

In 1995, Marion met his soulmate, Loretta Gray, and they were married on November 26, 1995. During their 31 years of marriage, they enjoyed spending time with family, boating, fishing, camping, and cheering on the Barnstormers.

Marion had a deep love for the Osceola Fourth of July celebrations, especially watching the parade with his family and participating in the annual canoe races. He took great pride in winning the races two years in a row alongside his brother, Gene.

From a young age, Marion spent countless hours in the fields doing custom combining, a passion he continued well into retirement while working alongside his brother. When the weather was nice, it was not uncommon to see Marion riding one of his many motorcycles.

After retiring in 2020, Marion devoted his time to his family, spoiling his wife, and caring for his beloved dogs. A man of many talents, he generously shared his skills with others and took great pride in doing things well. Marion was widely known for his versatility, work ethic, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Marion was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Joy Wilkins; his sister, Pat Randol; his brother-in-law, Chuck Hodges; his niece, Sarah Hodges (infant); his great-granddaughter, Ryleigh Emery; and many other beloved family members.

He is survived by his wife, Loretta Wilkins of Osceola; his children, Tiffany (Scott) Karsjens of Weldon, Iowa; Jerame Wilkins of Des Moines; Jessica (Jay) Lamb of St. Charles, Iowa; Melissa Wilkins of Ankeny, Iowa; and Skyler (Tabitha) Wilkins of Des Moines; his brother, Gene (Cheryl) Wilkins of Osceola; his sister, Pam Hodges of Indianola; his borrowed children and grandchildren, Lois and Josh Parker; Steve and Sarah Epperson; Justic King; and Melissa Korte-Thompson, Kylene Ackelson; 24 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and close friends.

Services will be held at Kale Funeral Home - Osceola, Saturday February 7, 2026 at 10:30 am with Terry Kerr officiating and the family will greet friends at a visitation from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Friday, February 6, 2026 at Kale Funeral Home. Interment will be at Bethel Chapel Cemetery. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.kalefuneralhome.com