Fred Paul Elkins

Fred Paul Elkins (91) of Plainfield went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 8, 2024. Fred was born on October 4, 1932 in Ury, West Virginia, the eldest of five children of Robert and Jesse (Milich) Elkins. He graduated from Monrovia High School in 1950 where he was a star on the basketball court and in the classroom. Fred enlisted in the Marine Corps, proudly serving and rising to the rank of Sergeant during the Korean War. He credited the Marines with helping him see places far from his Morgan County home. After the war, he served five years in the USMC Reserves and worked as a bulldozer operator; he soon bought more equipment and started his own business, Elkins Excavating. He did work for local farmers and businesses and built small lakes like the one behind his home in Monrovia where many family reunions were held. In later years Fred worked as a warehouse manager at the National Guard Armory at Stout Field where he also enjoyed making deliveries to State Offices. He retired in 2003 and was designated a Distinguished Hoosier by Gov. Frank O’Bannon. 

Fred remained young at heart with his hobbies. He liked the old western TV shows and movies, collected old model train cars and railroad memorabilia, and even got into video games after playing Nintendo’s Mario Bros with his grandkids. 

Fred had an unwavering faith in God and love for Jesus and was not fearful of death. A favorite verse was Isaiah 40:31 “But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” He was a long-time member of Hazelwood Baptist Church and more recently of Faith Baptist in Avon. Fred was member of the Monrovia Masonic Lodge along with his brother Vernon. 

Fred was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 52 years, Linda (O’Hair); sisters Mary and Norma Jean; children Juanita and David; and grandson Matthew Richardson.

Left to cherish the memory of their beloved Dad, Pop, Big Bubby, and Grandpa are his children Fred (Mary) Elkins II, Sara (Don) Brock, and Dan (Sally) Richardson; brothers Vernon (Patty) and Jim; 11 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandchild. 

A private graveside service will be held at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Hall Indiana. Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory has been entrusted with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fred’s name to the charity of your choice. 

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