A memorial service for Captain John M. Wilkinson, 85, who died June 1 at his home in Newtown, will take place at 11 am, Saturday, September 20, at the Chapel at the United States Coast Guard Academy in New London. A luncheon will held after the service, at noon, at the Officers Club at the Academy. 

He was the devoted husband to the late Caroline N. Wilkinson; father and best friend to Holly Purcell, and her husband Mark, of Sandy Hook and Deborah Donnelly, and her husband Kevin Fisher, of Walnut Creek, Calif. Capt Wilkinson was the adoring grandfather to Alexa Purcell, and Kelli, Meggi, and Jamie Fisher. Survivors also include his brother, Louis Wilkinson; sister-in-laws Libby Wilkinson and Ruth “Skip” Carey; and several nieces and nephews. 

His career in the Coast Guard spanned 26 years and took him from California to Washington, DC, to Hawaii, including tours of duty as captain on the Resolute out of Alameda, Calif., and the Jarvis out of Honolulu. 

After retiring from the Coast Guard, he received a BS in accounting and moved back to the East Coast. After retirement, the Wilkinsons were able to enjoy one of their passions, travel. They went on many cruises and enjoyed spending winters in St Thomas, Puerto Rico, or Puerto Vallarta. 

Capt Wilkinson will be forever remembered for his dedication to his family, his happy and positive outlook, and his sense of humor.

For those interested in attending the September 20 service and luncheon, e-mail jcwilkinson1@netzero.net.

Memorial donations may be made to the Coast Guard Alumni Association at USCGA Alumni Association, Class of ’54 Endowment, 47 Mohegan Avenue, New London CT 06320.

 Honan Funeral Home, Newtown, is serving the family.