David Michael Warkins

David Michael Warkins, 84, passed away Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Serenity Home, surrounded by his loving family, following a brief illness. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and man of steadfast faith, Dave lived a life defined by music, craftsmanship, service, and an unwavering love for his family. To know him was to know kindness, humility, and a quiet strength that made him a friend to many.

Born May 18, 1942, in Sterling, IL, to Harold and Edith (née Nuelle) Warkins, Dave grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work and simple joys. He graduated from Mt. Morris High School, Class of 1960, and proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1963 to 1969. Dave married Mary Jane Gordon at Trinity Lutheran Church on February 21, 1965.

After high school, Dave worked at Rockwood Carver in Oregon, IL. Gifted with craftsmanship and a natural ability to work with his hands, he later became a carpenter, joining Marv Miller Construction before establishing his own business, Warkins Construction. In 1990, Dave hung up his tools and began a new chapter at The Village of Progress, where he worked with disabled adults with dedication and compassion until his retirement in 2009.

His lifelong love of traditional country music led to decades of guitar playing and singing the songs he cherished. He was a member of the County Line band, and he was founder of the Country Tyme band in which he sang and played rhythm guitar. Dave shared his voice and talent with countless friends, family, and fans, creating memories that will echo for years to come.

Dave found joy in the simple, meaningful moments—early mornings spent fishing, fixing or building anything that needed a steady hand, and offering help to a friend in need. His commitment to community was evident in his service on the church council at Trinity Lutheran, his involvement with the church youth group, his time as a Mt. Morris Community School District board member, and his years as a Cub Scout leader. Other than his family, he held his faith in the highest regard, living it daily through integrity, generosity, and a gentle spirit.

Dave is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Mary Jane; his sister, Susan Lyons; his two children, Brad Warkins and Laura (Mark) Cole; and his six grandchildren: Thomas Warkins, Andrew Warkins, Matthew (Amy) Schroedle, Daniel (Elisa) Schroedle, Adam (Erin) Cole, and Caroline Cole. He is also remembered fondly by several nieces and nephews. Dave was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Richard “Dick” Warkins.

Visitation will be held Friday, July 17, from 5–7 p.m. at Finch Funeral Home in Mt. Morris. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, July 18, at 10:30 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Mt. Morris, with graveside burial immediately following at Oakwood Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to a luncheon at the church following the burial. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Dave’s name to Trinity Lutheran Church, Mt. Morris, and Serenity Hospice and Home.

Dave’s legacy lives on in the work he crafted, the music he loved, and the family he cherished. His presence will be deeply missed, yet his memory will remain a steady, comforting light for all who knew him.

“If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it. Happy moments, praise God. Difficult moments, seek God. Quiet moments, worship God. Painful moments, trust God. Every moment, thank God.” ~ Unknown