Dean Richard Adkins, 91, passed away peacefully at home, in Burlington, WA on March 15, 2023.

He was born September 3, 1931, in Bellingham, Washington and grew up in Blanchard. He graduated from Burlington Edison High School in 1949. After high school, he served in the Navy for 4 years. He met Janet Freeman and married in 1956. They made a home in Mount Vernon and together raised 3 daughters.  Jan passed away in 1994 after 39 years together. In 2000 he married Mary Rice, and they spent 22 years together. He always felt fortunate to spend his life with two very special women.

Dean worked for numerous phone companies prior to 1972 and Verizon from 1972 to retirement in 1992. He also proudly served as Treasurer of the IBEW union for many years.

Dean was an avid fast and slow pitch softball player in his younger years. He passed on his love of sports to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. When his daughters were younger, he coached them in softball, as well as many other girls that became and remain like extended family. His other hobbies included bowling, boating, fishing, crabbing, clamming, pinochle, bridge and always a game of cribbage at night.

Dean was a walking, talking, sports encyclopedia. He was quick with a joke, had a nickname for everyone, and an unforgettable Woody Woodpecker laugh.

Dean and Mary spent many happy retirement years together enjoying their love of travel, golf and card games with their neighbors, Ken and Anita Carpenter.

He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Mary Adkins, daughters Tami Fifield (Tim), Tina Adkins, Tracy Koetje (Greg), grandchildren Justin Fifield (Coltin, Colby & Trey), Marni Fifield (Kash & Wyatt), Kara Koetje, Kyle & Stephanie Koetje (Luka & Lyla), and niece Cheryl Stransky.

Dean is preceded in death by his first wife, Jan Adkins, parents Marion and Melba Adkins, sister Phyliss Royce, and nephew Steve Stransky.

A special thank you to Dean & Mary's good friends, Mike & Cindy Trask for all their love and support.  Also, Polly Phillips, who has always been an important part of this family.

A Celebration of life will be held at the Skagit Golf and Country Club Clubhouse, 16701 Country Club Drive, Burlington WA, on Sunday, April 30 ^th , from 2 -4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Hospice of the Northwest Foundation. Link below

www.hospicenw.org

Please visit www.hawthornefh.com to share your thoughts and memories and sign the online guest register.

Arrangements are under the care of Hawthorne Funeral Home, Mount Vernon, WA.