Fred “Fritz” Wilkerson, 90, of Burlington, died Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, at Bickford Assisted Living in Burlington.
Born on Oct. 26, 1934, in rural Prairie Grove, he was the son of Fred and Fern Stout Wilkerson. On Dec. 18, 1955, he married Donna Sherwood at Shinar Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Pleasant Grove. She preceded him in death on Sept. 2, 1991.
After 25 years, Fritz retired from Burlington River Terminal. He was a member of Shinar Cumberland Presbyterian Church. When Fritz was a little boy, he attended a one room school, Snyder Country School. In 1952 he graduated from Danville High School. Family was always first and nothing came before attending a family members event. He cherished his farm and caring for his land. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and thoroughly enjoyed watching the 2016 World Series and attending the Southeastern Community College Blackhawks basketball games. What Fritz valued most was being with his loving family.
Fritz is survived by his two children: Lisa (Doug) McElroy of Ottumwa, and Robert (Mandy) Wilkerson of Burlington; five grandchildren: Rachel (Coady) Spurgeon, Kaitlin (Tyler) Craff, Ahleah Hook, Emily (Hunter) Wilkerson and Cade (Shayla) Wilkerson; six great grandchildren: Elleigh, Ava and River Jo Spurgeon, Beau, David Fritz Wilkerson, Cove Reusch and baby Craff on the way. Also surviving is sister Becky (Terry) Rodeffer of West Burlington, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Fern Wilkerson; wife Donna; daughter Lori Wilkerson and sisters: Katherine Eileen Kleinkopf and Janet Asmus.
The visitation for Fritz will be held at 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024, at Lunning Chapel. The funeral service for Fritz will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, at Lunning Chapel with Pastor Jan Garza officiating. Burial will be held in Aspen Grove Cemetery.
A memorial has been established in his memory for Des Moines County Animal Shelter.