Thrasher Magazine

Photo: Atiba

08/07/1967 – 11/05/2025

Kevin Wilkins was a true master of his craft, which was skateboard riding and writing. As a skate photographer, maybe I should stick to photos and not words, especially when it comes to one of the best writers in skateboarding, but if you were lucky enough to know Kevin, all he did was push you to take chances and make something, as he always said, RAD. I was fortunate enough to meet Kevin in 1995 when we worked in the same cubicle at transworld. It was like a skate version of The Office; we did everything together—lunch breaks at Johnny Mañanas, straight to a session on Climax mini ramp, and then he was back to his computer writing away or on the phone connecting with every person involved in skateboarding. Even back then Kevin had this deep commitment to our community. He loved skateboarding and if you got to skate with him, you saw the best style; he was a natural skater. Everything was effortless and perfect. I would always say to him, “Fuck writing. I think you should go pro!” Moving to California from Colorado was a confusing time for me, but Kevin being from Nebraska really helped me be comfortable in not forgetting where I was from. He loved Nebraska and was very proud of his home. That was Kevin. Wherever he went, he always wanted to make sure everyone was having a good time. He always put others first and wanted the best for everyone. This is why he was such a great brother, husband and father. The whole time I knew Kevin, anytime he talked about his family he would light up. It was very inspiring to see someone love his career, but still love his family more. In skateboarding, that isn’t always the case. I worked with Kevin on and off for 20-plus years. I feel so honored to have had my photos next to his deep and hilarious words. After all these years, he was never jaded or bitter. His love for skating never faded. It was amazing to see what he did for the community in Lincoln, Nebraska, getting parks built and having fundraisers—he gave so much. Kevin was a strong fighter. I will miss him. I know everyone that knew him and who read his writing will miss him. But we are so lucky that he left behind a tremendous trove of columns and interviews. Lucky, because we’ll be able to read his writings so they will live on forever. —Atiba