William Paul Askins, affectionately known by his friends and family as Bill, passed away Sunday, January 25, 2026, at his home with the love of his life, Darlene, by his side. He was born May 5, 1933, in Lima, Ohio, the son of James and Helen (Betts) Askins. Among Bill’s greatest accomplishments in life were his wife and four children, Denise Stewart, Pamela Fulton, Cheryl Fuller and Jeff Askins.
Following graduation from Hesperia High School, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952, proudly serving his country until 1956. He then worked at DuPont Chemical Company for several years until he decided to further his education, first at Muskegon Community College and then at Grand Valley State University, graduating with his BA. With a passion for helping children, Bill went on to work at FiveCAP before starting employment with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, where he was a Protective Service Worker, retiring after 20 years of dedicated service to his community.
In his younger years, Bill found solace in the great outdoors, often found hunting and fishing. He also took great pride in the family garden and loved his corn, tomatoes and onions.
Bill was involved in many local groups where he gained friendship and purpose in service. These include the Hart Lions Club, Hart Long Rifles and Hart American Legion. Bill and Darlene were also faithful members of the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Shelby.
Bill married Darlene in 1955, and she survives him along with their children, Pam (Mark) Fulton, Cheryl (Wendell) Fuller; son-in-law, Tom (Terri) Stewart; daughter-in-law, Beth Askins; grandchildren, Andy (Kristina), Carla (Mercedes), Sheila (Don), Nathan, Sarah (Chris), Jake, Melissa (Elizabeth), Wayne, Theresa (Tyler) and Samantha (John); great-grandchildren, Cameron, Anna, Julia, Thomas, Luke, Landon, Morgen, Emery, Jayse, Kingston, Emma, River and Penn; sister, Gloria of Grand Rapids; and brother, Tom, of Texas.
Bill was preceded in death by: his parents, James and Helen Askins; and his children, Denise and Jeff.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Shelby, 51 E. Third St., Shelby, MI 49455, with military honors and a luncheon to follow. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 10 a.m. until time of services at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to: First Congregational United Church of Christ in Shelby.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com
