George Dennis Wilkins, age 78, of Three Rivers, Michigan, passed away peacefully at his home on June 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on October 16, 1947, in Three Rivers, Michigan, the son of Harry and Edna (Hackenberg) Wilkins. George graduated from Three Rivers High School and attended Western Michigan University before answering the call to serve his country.

George proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1968. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, serving in Kontum and Chu Moor Mountain, Vietnam. On April 25, 1968, George was severely wounded in action after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds and injuries from a B-40 rocket attack. His bravery and sacrifice earned him the Purple Heart.

Prior to his military service, George worked as a lineman and at Bylows Grocery Store. Following his return home, he spent most of his life in Three Rivers, with a brief period living in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, from 1984 until 1989, before returning to his hometown where he remained for the rest of his life.

On May 3, 1969, George married Linda Russey in South Bend, Indiana. Though their marriage later ended in divorce, they shared many years together and raised a family.

George was a simple man who found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved hunting, fishing, farming, and caring for the many animals that called his property home, including pigs, horses, Texas Longhorn cattle, peacocks, guinea fowl, and various birds. He enjoyed breeding Huskies and Labrador Retrievers, tending his vegetable garden, working with tractors on the farm, watching westerns on television, and listening to country music. Above all else, George treasured spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He attended services at Life Church in Centreville, Michigan.

He is survived by his children, Julie (Scott) Johnson of Vicksburg, Michigan, and Jeffrey Wilkins of Three Rivers, Michigan; grandchildren, Damen Speakman of Three Rivers, Whitney (Bradley) Baldwin of Battle Creek, Jeremy (Megan) Altimus of Marcellus, Tiffany Wilkins of Jones, Jeffrey (Dylan) Joseph Wilkins of White Pigeon, and Brandon (Delaney) Wilkins of Three Rivers; several great-grandchildren; siblings, Shirley Schumacher of Cincinnati, Ohio, Marilee (Keith) Krasny of Tucson, Arizona, and Thomas (Theresa) Wilkins of Three Rivers; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Edna Wilkins, and his brothers, Jerome Wilkins and Larry Wilkins.

A time of gathering will be held from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, June 10, 2026 at Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Avenue, Three Rivers, Michigan 49093.

Burial of cremated remains with military honors will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery on June 10, 2026 at 3:00 PM. 

Memorial donations may be made in George's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project or Shriners Children's Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Please visit www.rayfuneralservices.com to gather and share in George's memory.