Laverne W. Wilkening

LaVerne W. Wilkening, 81, of Sandwich, IL passed away December 23, 2021, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born April 8, 1940, in Sandwich , IL the son of Clarence and Lora (Lane) Wilkening. He married the love of his life, Mary Lou Murphy, on October 28, 1961, in Somonauk, IL. He received his undergraduate degree and Master’s Degree in Finance from Northern Illinois University. He worked for years in finance, serving as Comptroller and Vice President of various manufacturing companies while simultaneously working the family farm. He designed and constructed multiple grain systems, farm buildings, a hunting lodge and was always planning his next big project. He served for years as a Director on the Sandwich Hospital Board, Oak Ridge Cemetery Board and First Security Bank Board. A critical thinker and lifetime learner, he enjoyed reading and embraced technological change. Never retiring, he continued farming and online trading until he passed. He enjoyed boating, fishing and hunting, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his beloved wife Mary Lou, son Brian (Rose) Wilkening of Rochester Hills, MI, daughter Teresa (Ken) Wittmer of Elmhurst, IL, four grandchildren, Tatum, Sam, Devon, and Logan, and nephew Kyle (Sarah) Murphy. LaVerne's family and many friends benefited from knowing him and learning from him, will miss him deeply, and will never forget him.
Private Graveside Services will be held at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Sandwich, IL. Arrangements were entrusted to Burkhart-Eighner Funeral Home in Sandwich, IL. To sign the online guestbook go to www.EighnerFuneralHomes.com

Burkhart-Eighner Funeral Home
606 E. Arnold Street
Sandwich, IL.
815-786-2165