Robert A. Wilkins

Robert A. Wilkins, Jr., 79, of Berrien Springs, passed away July 2, 2018.
Bob was born July 19, 1938 to Robert A. and Dorothy (Fuller) Wilkins, Sr., in Wauseon, Ohio. He graduated from high school in Lancaster, Ohio, then graduated from Emmanuel Missionary College (now Andrews University) in 1961 with a Bachelor’s degree. At Purdue University he earned his Master of Science degree, and he completed his Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry in 1973 at Pennsylvania State University. He returned to Andrews University in 1971 (before completing his Doctorate) and was Chair of the Chemistry Department from 1971-1988, when he resumed full-time teaching until retirement July 1, 2002 and was given the distinction of Professor of Chemistry, Emeritus.
Bob was a dedicated Christian, a great mentor and an esteemed professor. He influenced the lives of thousands of students during his career. His greatest reward was staying connected with his former students.
Survivors include his wife, Fran Watkinson, whom he married in 1992; sister, Jean (Kent) Bermingham; niece, Susan (Nico) Franano; nephew, Kent (Charity) Bermingham, Jr.; great-nephews and nieces: Aaron, Andrew, Catherine Grace and Enzo; and stepdaughter, Jackie (John) Hilderbrandt.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Beth May Foster Wilkins, whom he married in 1962; and niece, Kellie Susan Bermingham.
Memorial Services will be at 4 p.m. Saturday, July 7, at Pioneer Memorial Church on the campus of Andrews University, where friends may visit starting at 3 p.m. Online messages and memories may be shared at www.allredfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing in Bob’s memory to two projects at AU—Dept. of Chemistry/Biochemistry and the Horn Museum. Gifts may be made online at www.andrews.edu or checks may be mailed to AU, Office of Development, 8903 US Hwy 31, Berrien Springs, MI 49104.