Earl Hunkins

There truly was no one more genuine than Earl Hunkins. With a heart of gold and a natural way with people, everyone was made to feel special in his presence. His personality was so cheerful, he earned the nickname, Earl the Pearl. Lucky to be loved unconditionally by him as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

The 1950s were exciting times indeed, with the many talents of professional sports figures, musicians, and movie stars such as Mickey Mantle, Elvis Presley, and James Dean. Families still huddled around television sets to catch the latest episode of Gunsmoke or anything featuring Lucille Ball. On August 9, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan, proud parents Lloyd R. and Norma L. Hunkins welcomed home their baby boy, Earl William. His birth brought much joy and happiness to the family home.

Earl and his three siblings were raised in Vassar, Michigan, a small town near the thumb area. They enjoyed playing outdoors and finding mischief from time to time. Earl was active throughout his childhood and played baseball, track, and basketball during high school. A talented athlete, Earl thrived as the captain of the baseball team. He was a proud graduate of the Class of 1968 from Vassar High School. Studious and ambitious to achieve his academic goals, he enrolled in Central Michigan University, where he earned his Bachelor's in Education. Later, he obtained his Master’s from Ferris State University. A natural at his profession, he valued education throughout his life and made a successful career as a teacher, principal, and coach. Many lives were touched by his wisdom and consistent nurturing. Students, athletes, and colleagues shared many stories of his time in the educational field.

As a father, Earl was loving and supportive. His oldest daughter was adopted at an early age after he and her mother’s relationship ended. Earl, therefore, only raised his youngest daughter, Angie Carol. They had a special bond and enjoyed many years of watching sports together and going fishing. A highlight was sharing his love of music with her over the years. He enjoyed listening to the music from the 60s, 70s, and 80s and would appease her by listening to her more modern tunes. Earl enjoyed making chili and grilling out as well as taking her for rides in his red convertible. He and Angie made many special memories over the years.

In addition to his career and role as a father, Earl held many interests. A lover of all sports, he enjoyed cheering for his Michigan teams. Athletic throughout his life and a bit competitive, this led to his fierce commitment to the Detroit Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings. He especially enjoyed listening to the Tigers on the radio in his younger years. Earl owned plenty of sporting gear and a large collection of U of M shirts and collectibles. When it came to food, Mexican and Chinese were his favorites. Most of all, he loved being around people and especially enjoyed the time he spent with his family.

Described as a bright light and selfless person, Earl leaves behind a legacy of being a compassionate person to know and to love. He lived his life without regrets and accepted all people. May his loved ones find comfort in the many special moments he shared over the years, and may his memories be eternal.

Earl William Hunkins, age 75, of Grand Rapids, MI, passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, in the loving arms of his family and in the comfort of his home. Along with his parents, Earl is preceded in death by his brother, Douglas Hunkins. He is survived by his daughter, Angie (Willie Jones) Hunkins, and grandchildren: Alyssa, Alexie, Allen, Savannah, and Staccia; great-grandchildren: Amine, Ayven, Jayden, and Ayzriel; two siblings, Sally and Gary, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins that meant the world to him.

A gathering to share stories and celebrate his life will be held Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 2 PM with visitation prior beginning 1 PM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home–Van Strien Creston Chapel, (1833 Plainfield Ave NE., Grand Rapids, MI 49505). All are invited to a reception following.

Celebrate Earl’s life by sharing your favorite stories and pictures on his dedicated memory page at Heritagelifestory.com