Wilbur was born December 24, 1933 in Atlanta, Ga, a son of the late Howard and Florence Wilson. As a small child, his family moved to Fort Myers, FL, where he grew up and then joined the United States Army as a member of the Signal Corp. He then went on to attend LeTourneau University where he earned a B.S. in Mechanical Science. In 1960, Wilbur went to work for OTIS Engineering Corporation in Beaumont, TX, and a short time later met the love of his life, Miss Mary Ellen (Luecke) Wilson. He had a successful career as division manager with OTIS in multiple locations throughout the United States, and earned the position of Regional Manager over South East Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
Wilbur loved to fly and run marathons. His travels with work allowed him to run in races all over the world. Wilbur shared his love for God, people, family pets (kitties - Missy 1 & 2 and Precious the Border Collie), gardening, sports, and cars (in fact, anything with wheels), with his wife, children and grandchildren. He officially retired from OTIS in 1990 and enjoyed traveling with Mary Ellen in their RVs. There are so many favorite things Wilbur loved to do in life, and one of our favorite memories is that he ALWAYS brought flowers to our mother and his loving wife, especially roses.
He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Marlene (Luis) Liano of St. Johns, FL and their daughter and her fiancé Francesca (Leonardo) and their son Matthew; his son and daughter-in-law, Brian (Andrea) Wilson of Rockledge, FL and their son and daughter-in-law Bradley (Kara) Wilson; his sister Anne Mitchell (Craig) and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ellen (Luecke), parents, Howard and Florence, and three brothers Howard, Edward, and James. Wilbur was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his entire family. He was always there to offer kind words of support, advice and encouragement, and was forever so proud of his grandchildren - Bradley, Francesca and Matthew - and their many achievements.
A private Christian burial will be held for Wilbur at noon, Monday January 9, 2023 in Jacksonville, FL. The family suggests that memorial donations in memory of Wilbur be made to: Westminster Communities Foundation, 25 State Road 13, Saint Johns, FL 32259. The family would also like to extend special thanks to the entire Westminster Woods on Julington Creek staff and community, and Haven Hospice for their compassionate care and support.
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