Donald Duane Kilker

Donald Duane Kilker, 95, of Rogers, Arkansas, peacefully passed away on August 26, 2025. Born on a farm north of Worthington, Minnesota, Don attended a one-room schoolhouse until the 4th grade. The family later moved to Round Lake, MN where Don finished his schooling.

At 18, Don enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served four years during the Korean War aboard the USS Leyte, spending 43 months at sea. His honors include the Good Conduct Medal, Korean Service Medal with two battle stars, Navy Occupation Medal, European Medal, Asia Medal, commendations for bravery, and membership in the Golden Dragon. His name is proudly inscribed on the Veterans Wall of Honor in Bella Vista.

In 1954, Don met the love of his life, Barbara Higgins. They married on June 18, 1955, in Worthington, MN, and had three children—Kevin, Kim, and Kerry. In 1971, they moved their family to Rogers, AR, sharing 51 wonderful years of marriage until Barbara's passing in 2006. Don cherished his family, including his children, their spouses, 10 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren, and was deeply proud of their accomplishments.

Don was a devoted member of St. Vincent de Paul Parish since 1971, serving as an usher and greeter, and a Knights of Columbus member since 1956. He was active in the VFW, American Legion, Moose Lodge, and a longtime member of the Elks Lodge. At his passing, Don was the oldest member of the Rogers Elks, where he served in leadership, played darts, and rarely missed a dance.

Don owned and operated service stations in Worthington and Rogers for 40 years and was a U-Haul dealer for 30 years, frequently recognized as one of the nation's top dealers. Known for his quiet strength, he loved the outdoors, fishing, traveling, playing cards, and sharing adventures with his family. In later years, he enjoyed the companionship of Sue Yarbrough, participating in travel, fun times and the Elks Lodge darts and dances.

He is preceded in death by: his parents, Fred Kilker and Clara Loringer, and 8 siblings, Ralph, Lawrence, Herman, Marvin, Ray, William, Darlene, and Lorraine.

Don is survived by: children, Kevin Kilker (Anne), Kim Kilker Moger Foland (Doug), and Kerry Kilker (Kindra); grandchildren, Adam Kilker (Jamie), Alex Kilker, Lacey Huibregtse (Jacob), Siobhan Cutone, Mason Moger, Madison Moger, Morgan Moger, Zachary Foland, Karlee Kronenfeld (Paul), and Kaleb Kilker; and great-grandchildren, Owen, Zoey, and Aden. He is also survived by sister, Betty Taarud, many nieces and nephews, and beloved partner, Sue Yarbrough.

A memorial mass will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., St. Vincent de Paul Parish, Rogers, AR. Following the service will be a Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. at the Rogers Elks Lodge.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the following organizations:

St. Vincent de Paul Building Fund

Arkansas Children's Northwest

Rogers Elks Lodge