Mr. Wilke was a United States Air Force veteran. He was a member of Millstadt VFW Post 7980 and the Ainad Shriners Legion of Honor. He loved the outdoors and was an avid sportsman; especially enjoying fishing, hunting, and golfing. On occasion, you could find Larry trying his luck on the slots at Rosies in Freeburg.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Myra Jane, nee Augustine, Wilke, whom he married on August 11, 1973, and who died on May 31, 2021; his parents, Raymond and Aurelia, nee Birkner, Wilke; three sisters, Raejean Wood, Patricia Felsoci, and Joyce Schaaf; and three brothers, Wesley “Sonny” Wilke, Raymond (Joyce) Wilke, and Robert Wilke.
He is survived by two sons, Patrick (Julia) Wilke and Matthew (Shelly) Wilke;
a grandson, Patrick Jr.;
a brother, Chuck (Cindy) Wilke;
a sister, Judy (Gene) Crites;
brothers-in-law, Bill Schaaf and John Felsoci;
a sister-in-law, Ethel Wilke;
and many dear nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Shriner’s Hospital for Children, St. Louis, MO, or the VFW Post 7980, Millstadt, IL. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, March 22, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 22, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Burial with military honors will be at Green Mount Protestant Cemetery, Belleville, IL.