for the Thanksgiving holiday with her family.
Born in Lavelle, Pennsylvania to Eugene and Lauretta Wetzel, Jean later moved to Southern Maryland. It
was there at Hills Dry Cleaners, where she worked in between college semesters, she met Carl Wilgus. A
Navy Ensign, Carl was smitten with her brown eyes and asked her on a date. Jean declined but invited
Carl to attend church with her. Carl did and had an encounter with Jesus on Father's Day 1951 and a
few months later she became his bride. Jean's incredible faith has left a legacy for generations to come
as noted below. Carl and Jean's storybook marriage lasted for almost 55 years. Marrying Carl gave a
small town girl the opportunity to travel the world during Carl's 30 years in the Navy. As a Navy
Commanders wife she hosted numerous events. Jean always had a place at the table for a young service
man in need of a home cooked meal after church. She played both the piano and organ and also served
as choir director in many churches as the family moved from place to place. Jean was an accomplished
seamstress and made most of her own clothing and that of her girls. She even tackled Madrigal
costumes for both of her daughters. She hand painted her own porcelain dolls and made each one their
own intricate clothing, even winning a first place ribbon at a competition in Florida.
Proceeded in death by her husband CDR Canton L. Wilgus. Surviving children - Linda Medaris (John) of
Bristow, VA; Lois Gerstenberger (Neil) Powder Springs, GA and Carla Wendorf (Todd) of Elk Grove
Village, IL Sister Dollie Ann Starmeare of Baliground, GA 8 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.
Mrs. Wilgus will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in section 33, grave 5967. A graveside
service will be announced at a later date.
Woodstock Funeral Home in Woodstock Georgia and Joseph A.
Gawler's & Sons in Washington DC in charge of arrangements.
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