Carl Anthony Wilken

Carl A. Wilken, 101, of Sandusky passed away peacefully on Friday, October 13, 2023, in the Ohio Veterans Home, Sandusky.

He was born July 30, 1922, in Sandusky to the late Carl and Minnie (Grahl) Wilken. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic Elementary School and was a graduate of Sandusky High School. From the University of Illinois, Carl enlisted in the 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, a lifelong member of the VFW Post #2529, American Legion Post #83, Sandusky Elks #285, and the 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 his six children, Barbara (Paul) Lilje of Huron, Donna (Jim) Riesterer of Sandusky, Paul (Lin) Wilken of Celina, John (Cindy) Wilken of Huron, David “Hermie” (Loretta) Wilken, and Chris (Al) Mielke, both of Sandusky; twenty grandchildren, thirty-three great grandchildren, several great great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

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

A funeral mass will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, October 20, 2023, in the St. Mary's Catholic Church, 429 Central Avenue, Sandusky. Fr. Doug Taylor will officiate. Military honors will be held at 12:00 pm at Woussickett Golf Course, 6311 Mason Road, Sandusky following mass.

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.

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