Jack E. Wilkening

Jack E. Wilkening, age 89, of Lansing, IL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 26, 2026. Beloved husband of the late Sandra Jean Wilkening, nee Faber. Loving father of Ann (Dan) Persenaire, John (Lea) Wilkening, and Keith (Amy) Wilkening. Cherished grandfather of Hannah (Matt) Schoppen, Adam, Annaleah, and Daniel Persenaire, Jack and Joshua Wilkening, Alayna and Grant Wilkening. Dear brother of the late Pamela Wilkening. Proud uncle of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents John and Lena Wilkening. Jack was a United States Air Force Veteran who served in Japan. He was a lifetime member of Sports Car Club of America, and he volunteered at Lansing Historical Society. Jack worked at Standard Oil and as a distributor for Matco Tools. He was an avid photographer and motorsport historian. He was a member of Grace Church in Lansing, IL. Jack was loved by many and will be dearly missed.

Visitation Friday, March 6, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Ln. Dyer, IN with Rev. Andy Nearpass officiating. Memorials may be given to Elim Christian Services (www.elimcs.org) or Lansing Historical Society. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery – Elwood, IL. For further information please contact 219-322-7300 or visit www.SMITSFH.com