Larry Wilke

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Larry D. Wilke, 75, of Freeburg, IL, born February 14, 1949, in Belleville, IL, died Sunday, March 17, 2024, at his residence.

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.

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13 Comments on Larry Wilke

Swansea Farmer's Market said : Guest Report Apr 02, 2024 at 12:35 PM

It was a sad full day when we heard of Larry's passing. A great vendor who always had a smile and a smarmy comment. He was enjoyable to be around and so well liked by the market and our customers. He will surely be missed. Connie Morriss, Market Manager.

  • Belleville
  • IL
Loyceann Williams said : Guest Report Mar 27, 2024 at 10:00 PM

Patrick and Matt, I was shocked and so very sorry to read about your dad's death. He was indeed a nice and very friendly man. I always talked to him at the Farmers' Market. My deepest sympathy to both of you and Patrick Jr.

  • Belleville
  • IL
Dale Chinn said : Guest Report Mar 23, 2024 at 12:18 AM

Matthew and Patrick you have our sincere condolences. I worked with your dad in the coal mines and also knew your mother. Always in our thoughts and prayers.

  • Lenzburg
  • IL
Dennis Sedlak said : Guest Report Mar 21, 2024 at 7:27 PM

To the Kind and Gentlle Soul of Larry Wilke, who always put Family and Friends first and was always there if you needed him. I will forever miss that big smile and that warm and welcoming manner. Journey Well, Larry. The pleasure of your company was all of ours. Fondly remembered, Dennis Sedlak St. Louis

  • St. Louis
  • MO
Denice said : Guest Report Mar 20, 2024 at 10:13 AM

I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Larry and Myra both. They made a lot of shirts for me. Larry would come into Gary's Restaurant in the morning and say hello to me every time and I would say guess you are playing golf and he say yes I am. My friend Karen texted me this morning about him and I was so surprised because I didn't think he was even sick. I am going to miss him as must as I miss Myra. I guess no more going over to the house to make shirts.

  • Smithton
  • Illinois
George Koval said : Guest Report Mar 20, 2024 at 8:00 AM

Dear Matt and Patrick, I wish I could find any words that could help make this event more comforting for you both. When I heard about your father’s passing yesterday, I just broke down and remembered all those wonderful times spent at your parents’ home. Your Dad (and your mom) were always so welcoming, kind and generous for friends gatherings and holiday moments. The last 3 years have changed so much in your lives, especially now with both of their passing's but just always remember the blessings you had with them. Your Dad cared so much for all his family and friends, and nothing will ever break that love. Carry on, we have too and always, always believe even though you may think that life does not play fair. Condolences and hugs to both of you and your families. - George Koval

  • Ballwin
  • MO
Don Bishop said : Guest Report Mar 19, 2024 at 6:57 PM

Enjoyed working with Larry at IDOT, he was a knowledgeable man and always had a great story to tell, prayers to the family.

  • New Athens
  • Illinois
Kim James said : Guest Report Mar 19, 2024 at 3:39 PM

Uncle Larry-it is me Teet(Kim)-Sunday March 17th was not supposed to happen this way, we had plans for my 60th, you made me a special birthday shirt; I wore it on Sunday, we were at the breakfast place, ready to start the festivities for the day, we were supposed to go to the casino, you know. Win the big one...CHA-CHING!!!! ….. little did I know that my heart would be broken that morning. How do I write this, what do I write, our Sunday morning breakfasts, our mini trips to the casinos (along with our strategies), our talks about weight loss, family, garlic bread, conversations between you and David regarding electrical issues, where do we (Wilke family) go from here. We come from a large and loving family, and for the past 60 years, you have been my Uncle Larry. I could go on and on only to make this reality a little easier perhaps, but know that we will miss you very much, we will once again as a family come together and celebrate you. Your sister Judy (my mom) and your brother Chuck, we will be with them, helping to adjust to their new normal along with Patrick and Matthew. Our family is strong and like the others that went before you, we will love and celebrate you not only Friday but always. Your passing in one reunion Diana and I did not plan, but we can only imagine it was the best one yet. Love your niece Kim aka Teet.

  • Fairview Heights
  • Illinois
Robin Chandler said : Guest Report Mar 19, 2024 at 2:25 PM

Thus ends the record of this good and just mason. Matthew and Patrick you have my sincere condolences; my family had many good times & shared some bad times together. Love &Hugs to you.

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
RBM Golf Course said : Guest Report Mar 19, 2024 at 2:07 PM

Larry was such a nice man. We will certainly all miss him here at the golf course. Condolences from all of us at RBM Golf Course/ Okawville.

  • Okawville
  • IL
Phillip Pete Sawyer said : Guest Report Mar 19, 2024 at 8:50 AM

Larry was a great friend. I always enjoyed working with him at IDOT. When i saw him around Freeburg he always had a big smile and a friendly hand shake. God Bless my friend.

  • Freeburg
  • Illinois
The Nevener Family said : Guest Report Mar 19, 2024 at 8:29 AM

Uncle Larry, Your presence will be missed greatly in our lives. I just know you had the reunion of a lifetime when you arrived in Heaven. Love Always, Your Great Niece, Kathy.

  • Millstadt
  • Illinois
Kendra Grout said : Guest Report Mar 19, 2024 at 6:47 AM

Patrick I am so sorry to hear about your dad passing. He was so much fun to be around. He is now with your beautiful mother Myra whom I adored dearly. Hugs to you!

  • Belleville
  • Illinois

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