Mr. Wilkinson was a graduate of Cathedral High School, Belleville, IL. He worked for American Zinc as a metal stripper, for Equitable Life Insurance Company as a salesman, and eventually he owned his own appraisal business, Wilkinson Appraisal. He also drove a school bus for the Special School District. Jim treasured good times at his clubhouse, boating, and water skiing. He enjoyed his trips to the casino, playing cards, watching movies, listening to music, and dancing.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Norman A. and Margaret Ann, nee Shannon, Wilkinson; two sisters, Margaret “Peggy” Albrecht and Sharon “Sherry” Davidson; and a son-in-law, Ronald Contratto.
Surviving are a son, Jeff (Ozzy Pascual) Wilkinson; a daughter, Jennifer Contratto; the mother of his children, Sandie, nee Menendez, Wilkinson (Gerry) Seger; three grandchildren, Sandie (Brian) Knopps, Joey Contratto, and Katie Contratto; two great-grandchildren, Lilli and Liam Knopps; two sisters, Jayne (Richard) Kress, and Norma (Steve) Lester; a brother-in-law; Irwin Albrecht; many nieces and nephews; and his furever family, Latte, Nima, and Bella.
Memorials may be made to Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care, or to Partner’s 4 Pets. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 11, 2021, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL. Standard CDC guidelines, including masks and social distancing, will be observed.
Funeral: Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, March 12, 2021, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Fr. Gene Neff officiating.
Burial will be at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Belleville, IL.