Donald R Wilken

June 27th marked the peaceful passing of Donald R Wilken. For the past 2 years and 9 months, Don courageously faced the challenges brought on by a stroke, which left him unable to walk again. Don was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, and graduated from Austin High School before serving his country in US Navy from 1964-1968. During his service on the USS Columbus, he received several honors, including the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and National Defense Service Medal.

In 1970, Don married Patricia (Canibano) Wilken, and together they raised two children, Jeffrey Wilken and Jennifer Wilken, in Romeoville, Illinois. Committed to his community, Don dedicated a decade of service on the board of the Community Service Council in Romeoville.

Don was a devoted father, coaching his son’s football and baseball teams during their adolescent years and being a constant presence at his daughter’s high school games. He developed a passion for photography, capturing cherished moments at his daughter’s activities.

Throughout his life, Don found joy in scuba-diving and riding his Honda Goldwing motorcycle. However, his favorite place was the family cabin in Webb Lake, Wisconsin, which had been a treasured destination since his childhood. Don was a lifelong fan of the White Sox, Blackhawks, and Bears, in good times and bad.

In his professional life, Don excelled as a Sales Engineer, contributing his talents to organizations such as Molex, College of DuPage, Fusion-Aetek, and GSI Technologies.

In 2001, Don and Pat relocated to Elwood, Illinois, where they eased into retirement. During this phase of life, Don discovered a passion for woodworking, crafting intricate rocking horses, benches, keepsake boxes, and cabinets and amassing an impressive collection of wooden planers. He and Pat spent quality time at the family cabin in Webb Lake, Wisconsin.

In September 2020, Don experienced a hemorrhagic stroke, spending 31 days in the hospital. Left paralyzed on his right side, he found a loving home in his daughter's care, with the Veteran's administration providing regular visits from nurses and doctors. The family is forever grateful for the kind, loving, and compassionate care provided by Jayson Ducusin, his live-in caregiver.

Don was predeceased by his parents, David and Estelle (Butler) Wilken. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Pat; his son Jeff and wife, Renee (Valenta) Wilken; his daughter Jennifer and son-in-law Enrique Pilleux; former daughter-in-law Doretta Holmberg, Stella (Iniguez) Rempas; who he considered a daughter, son-in-law Emmanuel Rempas. Don’s grandchildren are Morgan (Arlie) Pearson, Jeremy (Trina) Wilken, Jordan (Kelly) Wilken, Grace Wilken Doyle, Sofia and Andres Pilleux, Thanasi, and Markella Rempas. He also leaves four great-grandchildren: Raelyn, Journey, Maisyn, and Cerelia. Don is survived by his two brothers, Richard (Diane) Wilken and Robert (Dianne) Wilken, as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews who held a special place in his heart.

Following Don's wishes, no formal service will be held. He will find his final resting place at Abraham Lincoln Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois on August 9, 2023 at 11:00 am.

Don's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor, his love of family and Necco Wafer candy, and his vast knowledge at random trivia. Don has left a lasting impact on the lives of his family and friends.