J. Michael Wilkins, 69, of New Castle, passed away on August 11, 2023, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh after a brief illness.

He was born June 16, 1954, to James U. and Lois (Paulhamus) Wilkins, in Red Lion, PA, moving to Williamsport, PA as a child.

Mike attended Lycoming College in Williamsport, then, after moving to New Castle in 1982, attended Slippery Rock University, graduating with a master's degree in counseling psychology.

He worked as a licensed professional counselor at Glade Run Lutheran Services in Zelienople, enjoying his time doing therapy for the many children he met there.

Mike is survived by his wife of 41 years, Susan Burkhard Wilkins, whom he married May 29, 1982, and a brother, Mark Wilkins, of Trout Run, PA.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, John Wilkins and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

In lieu of a service, please do something Mike would have enjoyed doing. Attend a Pittsburgh Pirates game, as Mike was a major fan, or a hockey game, as he liked the Penguins even though he was a lifelong Flyers fan. Perhaps go golfing, fishing, or take a run.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the R. Cunningham Funeral Home in New Castle where online condolences may be offered to the family at www.cunninghamfh.com