George Wilkins

George Merritt Wilkins, 51, a lifelong resident of the Traders Point area of Pike Township, passed away on December 3, 2012, following a long battle with cancer. George was born November 6, 1961 and graduated from Pike High School in 1980. He was a talented gymnast at Indiana State before graduating from Ball State University with a degree in telecommunications/video production. George worked in video and film, most notably the film "Hoosiers" and won numerous Addy and Telly Awards. He served as Gaffer, Grip, Writer, Producer, and Director during his career in video. George came from an auto racing family, following in his father's footsteps, racing sprint cars and midgets. George won the 1986 "Rookie of the Year" in the World Wide Auto Racing Group and the 1995 sprint car track championship at Paragon Speedway. George leaves a legacy of friendship, a testament to courage, and a passion for fatherhood. George is survived by his wife of 24 years, Crista Cockerill Wilkins, and his children Emma, age 14, and Eddie, age 10. He was preceded in death by his parents, George E. Wilkins, and his mother, Patricia Gault Wilkins. Calling will be held Friday, December 7, 2012 from 4-8 pm, at Flanner and Buchanan-Zionsville where a Celebration of Life Service will also be held on Saturday, December 8, 2012 at 11 am. A private burial will be at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Pike Township. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the George Wilkins Memorial Children's Education Fund, at any branch of Old National Bank. You are invited to offer you condolences, share a memory, or watch a video tribute to George's life at www.flannerbuchanan.com