He was born Dec. 27, 1942, in St. Joseph, Mich., to Henry C. and Mildred (Underly) Wolkins. On Dec. 10, 1992, in Elkhart he married Marsha A. Wentz.

She survives at home along with one son, James E. Wolkins Jr. of Lake Wales, Fla.; one stepdaughter, Patricia M. Beach of Albuquerque, N.M.; and two grandchildren.

There will be no visitation or funeral. Cremation has taken place and Billings Funeral Home in Elkhart handled arrangements.

Mr. Wolkins worked for Clark Equipment Co. in Galien, Mich. for more than 21 years as a truck driver and tow motor operator until the plant closed in 1983. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and bow hunting, and was an avid Notre Dame and NASCAR fan with the Earnhardt family being among his favorites.

Memorials may be given to any charity. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.billingsfuneralhome.com.