Carl Wilken Obituary

Carl A. Wilken

Jul 30, 1922 - Oct 13, 2023

Sandusky

Carl A. Wilken, 101, of Sandusky, passed away peacefully Friday, Oct. 13, 2023, at Ohio Veterans Home, Sandusky.

He was born July 30, 1922, in Sandusky, to Carl and Minnie (Grahl) Wilken. He attended St. Mary's Catholic Elementary School and was a graduate of Sandusky High School. From University of Illinois, Carl enlisted in U.S. Navy and was a crew member of the Archer-Fish SS 311 submarine. Carl was a man of many trades and following his service in the Navy, he joined the family business at Wilken Sheet Metal Heating and Air Conditioning, which has continued to serve the community for five generations.

He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and life-long member of VFW Post #2529, American Legion Post #83, Sandusky Elks #285, and AMVETS Post #17. Carl enjoyed life on Lake Erie with boating, fishing, and ice fishing. He also loved Cedar Point and could be found celebrating his 100th and 101st birthday, along with numerous family members, enjoying a Ferris wheel ride. Spending time with his family, especially the traditional Sunday picnics, were Carl's happiest moments.

He is survived by six children, Barbara (Paul) Lilje of Huron, Donna (Jim) Riesterer of Sandusky, Paul (Lin) Wilken of Celina, John (Cindy) Wilken of Huron, and David "Hermie" (Loretta) Wilken and and Chris (Al) Mielke, both of Sandusky; 20 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 74 years in 2020, Mary Ellen Wilken; granddaughter, Ashley Williams; parents; and siblings, Geraldine McKitrick, Pierre Wilken, and James Wilken.

Visitation for friends will be 9:30 a.m. until the time of Carl's funeral Mass at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 20, 2023, at Ohio Veteran's Home Secrest Auditorium, 3416 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky. Fr. Doug Taylor will officiate. A military memorial service will be 11 a.m. Friday with Chaplain Randy Barlow officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sandusky Central Catholic School, 410 W. Jefferson Street, Sandusky, Ohio, 44870, or Back to the Wild, P.O. Box 423, Castalia, Ohio, 44824.

Pfeil Funeral Home, Sandusky Chapel, 617 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky, has been entrusted with arrangements.

Condolences may be shared with the family at pfeilfuneralhome.com.