Adrian D. Caulkins

Lewistown- Adrian D. Caulkins, 76, of Lewistown passed away at 8:36 PM Sunday July 24, 2016 at his home.

He was born October 27, 1939 at rural Havana, the only child of Halbert and Lela (Thompson) Caulkins. They preceded him in death as well as Nelson Hoffman, a live in farm hand that was considered family. He married Bonnie J. Melvin on August 15, 1960 at Lewistown. She survives along with their four children, Keenan (Jackie) Caulkins, Adrina (Ed) Brewer, Malina (Larry) Lehman, and Travis (Treva) Caulkins all of Lewistown, nine grandchildren, Andrew and Kimberly Caulkins, Lee, Scott, and Ben Brewer, and Valerie (Brewer) Rutherford, Zachary and Kenton Lehman, and Haley Caulkins, seven great grandchildren, Austin, Logan, Jada, James, Owen, Jaxon, and Desmond. After the premature death of his mother-in-law, Adrian helped raise 9 of his wife’s younger siblings. This made for a large extended family that has remained very close through the years.

Adrian worked at Caterpillar Tractor Company East Peoria plant for 33 years before retiring in 1991. He was known as “Cowboy” by his coworkers. He also worked for the City of Lewistown as a part time police officer and served with the Lewistown Civil Defense-ESDA for 38 plus years, making him one of the longest serving members in Lewistown history. Adrian also enjoyed tractor and farm work, last working part time for Howe Farms.

A fan of country music especially that of Johnny Cash and Boxcar Willie, Adrian was an avid acoustic guitar player. He played in his early years with the band “Spoon Country Five” and later played at Lewistown and Havana Hardees’, Bryant, and Kilbourne.  In addition to his music ability Adrian was very artistic and creative. He loved to carve and work with metal and wood. A passion of his was collecting railroad memorabilia, especially railroad lanterns. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and collecting guns. A hard-working and loving husband, father and grandfather, he will be greatly missed.

A gathering for family and friends will be held from 2-4 PM Sunday July 31st at the Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery at a later date. A celebration of life fishfry/potluck will be held on October 22, 2016. Memorial contributions may be made to Graham Hospice. To view Adrian’s life tribute video or to send online condolences visit http://www.henrylange.com/.