Bill T. Eakins, 85, of Gas City, passed away at 8:22 pm on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana in Fort Wayne. He was born in Gas City, Indiana, on Tuesday, January 9, 1940, to Charles and Beulah (Garner) Eakins. On May 26, 1961, he married Rosalie Collins, who survives.
Bill worked for 33 years at Dana Corp., retiring in 1999. He enjoyed restoring vintage cars, collecting antiques, participating in the Duck Tail Run Car Show where he parked the cars, and exploring swap meets. He cherished connecting with family and friends, spending hours tinkering in his garage and yard, and attending auctions in Straw Town. Taking his beloved dog, Ralphi, on rides brought him joy, but above all, he treasured the moments spent with his kids and grandkids.
Bill is survived by his wife of 63 years, Rosalie Eakins of Gas City; daughter, Denise Coe of Gas City; grandchildren, Holly Eakins, Natalie Coe, Stephen Coe; great grandchildren, Caleb (Natalie) Day, Alexis (Miles) Murray, Colin (Haley) Day, Corbin (Trista) Day, Caiden (Racheal) Day, Connor Day, Amelia Mahoney, Rosalie Mohoney, Dorian Mahoney; 6 great-great grandchildren, Grayson, Hudson, Emmett, Stella, Elliott, Hazel; siblings Georgiana Pearson, Nate (Diane) Eakins, Doatzie Mills, Diane (Brian ) Fields, Steve (Helen) Eakins; several nieces and nephews; and good friend, Tom Basham.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles W. and Beulah I. Eakins; son-in-law, Steve Coe; sisters, Onnie Derssett, Peg Walser; brothers, Delbert Eakins, Mike Eakins; and brothers-in-law, Woody Pearson, Darrell Derssett, Ralph Walser, and Tom Mills.
At Bill’s request a graveside service will be held Friday, March 28, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Riverside Cemetery 321 S. Broadway St,. Gas City, IN with Rev. Dr. Tom Mansbarger officiating.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E. Main St., Gas City, IN.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
