Obituary for Michael Richard Adkins

Michael Richard Adkins, 71, of Winterset, passed away suddenly in Stuart on May 13, 2026.

Mike was born on April 4, 1955, in Rapid City South Dakota to James F. and Margaret Adkins. Though born in South Dakota, Mike proudly grew up in the “one horse town” of Dexter Iowa, a community that remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Mike was a talented high school athlete and a lifelong sports fan, especially when it came to following and supporting his grandchildren in their many activities and sporting events. He spent the majority of his life in Dexter, where he married and raised his three sons: Jason, Eric, and Alex. Mike was deeply involved in the Dexter community and was a proud member of both the Dexfield Jaycees and the local fire department to name a few.

Later in life, Mike moved to Winterset, where he lived until his passing. He was an avid golfer, pool player, lover of books, newspapers, and chocolate — traits he proudly passed down to more than one child and grandchild. If Mike wasn’t cheering from the stands at a grandchild’s event, he could often be found on the golf course with friends or at the pool hall alongside Alex, where the two played together in the same league for the past 15 years. Mike was often known for dabbling in the lottery from time to time.

Mike was loved deeply by all who knew him and will always be remembered for his easy giggle, cheerful disposition, and warm heart. He never knew a stranger and truly didn’t have an enemy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James F. and Margaret Adkins, and his brother, Kurt Adkins.

Mike is survived by his three sons: Jason Adkins; Eric (Dana) Adkins; and Alex (Jamie) Adkins; his six beloved grandchildren, Seth, Zoe, Elijah, Mya, Chase, and Norah; his brother, Chris (Jerri) Adkins; and his sister, Anne (Chuck) Vanderheiden; along with many extended family members and lifelong friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Dexter Roundhouse in Dexter on May 31, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.