Robert D. Wilkins

Mr. Robert D. Wilkins, formerly of Waltham, died Friday, February 28th at Carriage House at Lee’s Farm Assisted Living facility in Wayland. He was 96.

Born on November 6, 1928 in Hambledon, England, he was the youngest son of the late George and Annie (Grant) Wilkins. He served in the Royal Air Force in the years following World War II and in 1947 met the love of his life, Italy native Leonilda Corsi.

In 1953 the pair married in London and would move to the United States in 1958 settling in Watertown and eventually Waltham. It was on their honeymoon that Bob discovered his love and appreciation for his wife’s home country. From the natural beauty to Italian music and culture, he immersed himself every moment of their visit. He had a natural artistic ability and musical talent; once he picked up the accordion he never stopped playing throughout his life. 

Bob had a keen sense of humor and could always make those around him laugh. He loved taking trips on one of his beloved motorcycles, and although he was not a pilot during his time in the service, he loved aviation and would recreationally fly in his adulthood. Bob had a can-do attitude and could fix just about anything. Like many in his generation, he was determined to solve any problem and could successfully mend anything from cars to household appliances using whatever materials he had at hand.

He had worked as an auto mechanic and later machinist at many area garages. He knew cars like the back of his hand and no job was too small. For a time he owned and operated Bridge Street Garage in Newton where he was known for his honesty and solid work. 

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Leonilda, who died on April 17, 2019. 

He leaves his sons, John D. Wilkins (Julia) of Hudson, Adrian G. Wilkins (Ratti Handa) of Essex, and Aldo M. Wilkins (Cheryl) of Bowdoin, Maine; his grandchildren, Michael Wilkins, Julie Wilkins, Kerri Wilkins, Chris Wilkins, and Matthew Wilkins; his great-grandchildren, Hannah, Sadie, Isaak, Sophia, Gabriella, Olivia, Lev, and Kye; his former daughters-in-law, Susan Wilkins of Bedford and Lysa Wilkins of Groveland; and many nieces, nephews, and their families.

Family and friends will honor and remember Bob’s life by gathering for an Evening Wake in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham, on Friday, March 7th from 4 to 7 p.m. and again Saturday morning at 11 a.m. when his funeral service will be held. Burial will follow in Mount Feake Cemetery, Waltham.