Donald Eugene Wilkinson, III

Donald "Don" E. Wilkinson III unexpectedly passed away and life for his family will never be the same. He was born into eternity on May 22nd, 2024. Donald was born to Gail and Donald E. Wilkinson Jr. on October 31st, 1967. He was an older brother to Kristen, who he loved, as they shared a special bond. Don graduated from the University of Illinois in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry degree. In 1995, he earned his Master of Chemical Engineering degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology. His family was proud of his achievements, and from then on, Don embraced a lifetime of curiosity and learning. At that epoch, those scholarly documents were the most important to him … until he obtained a marriage license. He was married on August 29th, 1992, to Sandra Kolenda, the love of his life. They were married for 31 wonderful years before God called him home. In 2000, he was blessed with his precious daughter, Amanda. She was his pride and joy, since that birth certificate was one of the most significant documents of them all. He was a devoted husband and loving father whose life brought immense joy, so now there is a void in our hearts without him. Don always reflected light and laughter everywhere he went. His generosity of spirit and sense of humor were always present, no matter what the situation. His constant focus was to help others, and make sure people were taken care of. His dedication was shown throughout each one of his jobs since he emphasized a strong work ethic and commitment to detail. Don's enjoyment activities and pastimes consisted of being on the waterscape. He loved going boating and fishing with his family for relaxation. Growing up, Don, along with his parents and sister, would bring their boat up to Spring Brook Marina and Starved Rock Marina for fun. Additionally, cars were an interesting facet as they allowed him to unwind. To break away from work, Don always made sure to attend the annual Chicago Auto Show with lifelong friends to view the latest automotive designs. Even though each of these hobbies were considered exciting and loud, they were paradoxical as they provided calmness and serenity to him. Don is survived by his wife Sandy and daughter Amanda. He is also survived by his parents, sister, many dear family members, and friends. Celebration of life memorials will be held in both Ohio and Illinois. Family, friends, coworkers, and all those who knew Don are invited to come to the services. The Ohio celebration of life will be on Saturday, June 29th from 10:00AM-1:00PM, at Calvary Church, in the chapel, with a memorial prayer service starting at 11:00AM (1360 Conant St. Maumee, OH) The Illinois celebration of life will be on Sunday, July 21st from 11:00AM-3:00PM, at the Morton Arboretum, in the Arbor Room (4100 Illinois Route 53 Lisle, IL) Isaiah 26:3-4 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.

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Donald Eugene Wilkinson, III

October 31, 1967 - May 22, 2024