Ronald "Dean" Adkins

Ronald "Dean" Adkins, age 77, of Battle Creek went to be with the Lord on September 30, 2022. Dean was born December 18, 1944, the son of Paul Ward and Emma Jane Adkins.

Dean was employed for many years at various companies through Connections, some include Goodwill, Summit Point, V.A. Laundry and the Federal Center. He also worked at Walgreens, Subway, Mowing lawns and Peddling Papers. Dean was a hard worker, punctual, committed and dedicated to whatever task he was given. He loved having "yard sales" and making an extra "five bucks" here and there. Through CIR, he bowled, and enjoyed riding horses at the Cheff Therapeutic Riding Center. Dean competed in the Special Olympics and earned a lot of ribbons. His smile and personality would light-up a room or workplace.

He is survived by his siblings Richard "Dick" (Sandy), Lois Spyker, Russell (Candi), Roger "Martin" (Cindy), Cheryle (Dan) Wells, Jr., Randall "Tom" and Gene (Bonnie), Howard Chism and many, many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Joyce Eileen Chism, Paula Jane Adkins, a brother Robert James Adkins and a brother-in-law, Richard "Spike" Spyker.

One of Dean's favorite holidays was Halloween, he always dressed up. He loved taking pictures, but more than anything, Dean loved being with his family. He loved talking on the phone with all his nieces and nephews and would end every call with I love you with all my heart. He was without exception, kind, pure of heart and an extremely loving and caring brother and uncle. Love defined him.


Friends will be received 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Sunday, October 9, 2022, at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, where a service to celebrate Dean's life will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, October 10, 2022. The service will be live-streamed and may be viewed by visiting: https://vimeo.com/event/2497222. Committal and interment will follow at Youngs Cemetery in Battle Creek.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kambly Living Center, 1003 North Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49017. Personal messages for the family may be placed above in the Memory Book here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.