Roy was born January 25, 1926 the son of Roy W. and Edith (Wieland) Wilkerson Sr. He proudly served his country during W.W. II in the U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marines. After his release from active duty, Roy returned to home to Springfield and married his sweetheart, Martha J. Lyons, May 10, 1946. Martha preceded him in death June 25, 2005.
He was also preceded in death by a grandson, Kory Kimmel, two brothers and three sisters.
Roy began his professional career in manufacturing as a machinist at Allis Chalmers retiring February 1983. He was a member of the UAW 1027. Roy was retired a short time when he joined his son Tim, at Wilkerson’s Service Centers until his second retirement after 30 years of service. Roy was known for his wit, a good story, and friendship to many. He cared deeply about his family, his neighborhood, and kids. He mentored so many kids and became a “Dad” to them as well. He managed the Boy’s Club for over 10 years, and the Harvard Park Boy’s Club and the Mildred Boy’s Club in the Cabbage Patch. Known for many “Royism’s”, one most known that he would tell his kids, as well as others, “I’m not trying to win a popularity contest, I’m just trying to raise kids”.
Roy had a passion for fishing. He especially enjoyed time spent on Patterson Bay, near Havana at his cabin, fishing with family and friends. He was an avid card player, always up for a good game of pinochle. Roy and his wife Martha were also very accomplished Square Dancer’s. They enjoyed memberships with the Chatham Chummy Chainers and Springfield Squares.
He is survived by his children: Pamela Wilkerson, Sally (Phil) Kimmel, and Tim (Krista) Wilkerson, all of Springfield, four grandchildren: Phillip (Angel) Kimmel Jr, Daniel (Brianna) Wilkerson, Kevin Wilkerson and Rachel Wilkerson. He has eight great grandchildren, and four great great grandchildren. Also surviving are his sister, Mildred Veira of Springfield as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Visitation: The Wilkerson family will greet friends at Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, IL 62712 on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 from 4-7 pm and also on Thursday, March 22, 2018 from 11:30 am – 12:15 pm at the funeral home.
Service: A funeral service will be held at 12:30 pm Thursday, March 22, 2018 at the funeral home with Rev. Julia Melgreen officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Park, Springfield. Military Honors will be conducted by the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Bethesda Lutheran Home 6625 Phlox Dr. Springfield, IL 62712 to assist with household items for his daughter Pam.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West 217-544-5424.
