Harold C. Wilkins – 88 – of State Route 21 Hornell, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in his sleep early Sunday morning (October 12, 2025) at his home.
He was born in North Hornell on October 21, 1936 and was the son of Raymond & Margaret (LaMonte) Wilkins.
Harold, affectionately known as “Hook”, grew up in Burns, NY and attended Arkport Central School. He enlisted in the United States Air Force at the age of 18 and served his country from 1954 – 1958. While in the Air Force he was stationed in Germany and worked in the Artillery & Weapons Division.
Following his honorable discharge from the military, Harold returned to Arkport where he was employed at Max Wilkins Service Station in Hornell for eight years. It was there that he met the love of his life and future wife, Christine, when she walked in to have a spare key made. After meeting her he turned to his friend and said “I’m going to marry that girl.” They were married on September 30, 1961 and were inseparable for 64 years. He was employed for 20 years as a crane operator at Foster Wheeler Corporation in Dansville, NY. From 1968 to 2023 Harold owned & operated Harold Wilkins Used Cars in Hornell, serving the automobile needs of countless families in the area. After retiring from Foster Wheeler, Harold & Christine spent over 20 wonderful winters at their home in Hudson, FL.
Harold had a gift for storytelling. His tales of childhood, life experiences and humorous moments brought laughter and joy to all family gatherings. As a lifelong car enthusiast, he had a deep love & respect for antique automobiles and throughout the years owned and displayed many antique cars in parades & car shows throughout the country. In Flint, Michigan he drove his 1960 Chevy Impala in a parade of 100 cars celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the automobile. He also showcased his 1990 Buick Reatta at the 100th Anniversary of the Buick. Over the years, Harold and Christine participated in many “Founders Tours” displaying their antique cars throughout the country. He was a member of the Antique Automobile Car Association (AACA) and also the Chemung Valley Region Car Club where he was as an active member and served a term as President. He also had a deep fondness for bicycles, getting his first tricycle at the tender age of three. At 80 years old and at his family’s dismay, he was still found entertaining his grandchildren and great grandchildren by riding his bicycle backwards down the driveway. In his younger years, he spent countless hours on motorcycles, both road & dirt bikes. Harold also enjoyed car auctions, kayaking, the sunshine, gardening, picnics, playing cards and life in general. His smile will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.
Harold was preceded in death by brother, Monte Wilkins; brother & sister-in-law, Richard (Ella May) Wilkins; sister and brother-in-law, Barbara (Fay) Bennett; sister, Miriam Carroll; infant great grandson Cruze Henry and nephew Larry Bennett.
Harold is survived by his wife, Christine; 2 daughters, Debra Smith of Springhill, FL and Cynthia Wilkins of Springhill, FL; 1 son, Daniel Wilkins of Hudson, FL; 6 grandchildren – Ryan (Jenna Martinez) Flaitz, Curtis (Dominica) Flaitz, Makenzie Smith, Tyler Hoskins, Caden (Linsey) Hoskins & Kyleigh (Tyler) Henry; 10 great-grandchildren – Rowdy Flaitz, Rebelle Flaitz, Rayder Flaitz, Raddix Flaitz, Rookie Flaitz, Bowen Hoskins, Bradley Hoskins, Bronsen Hoskins, Haven Henry & Hartley Henry; sister-in-law, Jean Wilkins and many nieces and nephews.
At Harold’s request there will be no calling hours. Graveside service will be held at a later date.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Harold’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com
