Ignatius Wunderlin Elkins

Ignatius Wunderlin "Iggie" Elkins Sr. 80, a lifelong resident of Pine Bluff, died Monday, May 7, 2012, at his home and surrounded by his family. Born February 1, 1932, he was a son of Robert Joseph Elkins, Sr. and Dr. Jennie Wunderlin Elkins. Iggie was reared and received his early education in Pine Bluff, graduating from Pine Bluff High School. Ignatius Wunderlin Elkins, Sr. married Viola Taube on August 2, 1952, in Pine Bluff. His beloved Viola preceded him in death on May 4, 2010, after 58 years of marriage. Iggie was a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service for 34 years, retiring in 1987. Iggie was a long-time member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. He was a former member of the church choir, a member of the eucharist ministry, a third and fourth degree Knight of Columbus, and a member of Council 1153 of the National Association of Letter Carriers. Iggie often said that of all he had done, his favorite activities were visiting the elderly, helping others, and being with Viola and his family. Iggie was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Viola Taube Elkins; three brothers, Robert J. Elkins Jr. James P. Elkins, and Edwin Elkins; three sisters, Mary Cathrine Elkins, Mary Tresa Peyer, and Mary Margaret Mills. Survivors include four sons, Ignatius Wunderlin "Iggie" Elkins, Jr. of Bellevue, Nebraska, John J. Elkins of Pine Bluff, David C. Elkins of Hurley, Missouri, and Anthony E. Elkins of Pine Bluff; thirteen grandchildren, Eric, Mathew, Michael, Chad, Jeffrey, Ashley, Emily, Lee, Cody, Lindy, Daniel, Tony, and Sara; five great-grandchildren, Byndi Kay, Grace, Violet, Logan, and Zack. The vigil will be at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, May 10, 2012, at Ralph Robinson & Son Funeral Directors with a visitation to follow. The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 AM Friday, May 11, 2012, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Warren Harvey celebrating. Burial will follow in Graceland Cemetery by Ralph Robinson & Son. The family wishes to say thank you to the staff of Jefferson Regional Medical Center, and Hospice Angels for their wonderful care of Iggie. Memorials may be made to: Hospice Angels, 3801 S. Camden Rd. Pine Bluff, Ark. 71603. Online register at: www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.