Andy B. Wilkerson

A true gentle man passed from his earthly body into the Glory of Heaven on August 28, 2010.   Andy was a kind and loving man who treasured his family and friends.  He will be forever in the hearts of those he touched.   Andy B. Wilkerson was born on December 1, 1945 in West Frankfort, IL to Harry and Marguerite (Banovz) Wilkerson.   He was a graduate of Sesser High School and Rend Lake College in IL.  He married his best friend and love of his life, Debra, on August 22, 1975.   For 35 years, they were blessed with a love few ever find, truly each others best friend.  Andy loved his family and friends and was a life long train enthusiast and railroader.  He and Deb traveled across the country often visiting train museums and scenic railroads.   Steam trains were his favorite but he never met a train he didn’t enjoy learning about, seeing or riding on.   His love for trains began as a child with his Lionel collection from his parents and grandparents.  He shared his love of railroading with his children.  Everyone who new Andy grew to love his kind demeanor, sharp intelligence and wry wit.  Andy and Deb headed for their “western adventure” in 2001, moving from Benton, IL to Avondale, AZ and never looked back.   Andy loved living in AZ much preferring sunshine to snow.   Andy’s family will forever miss the love, joy and happiness he brought to our lives.

Andy is survived by his wife, Debra, his two sons, Lee Kahl and wife Jeanne, Buckeye, AZ; Steven Wilkerson and wife, Martha, Surprise, AZ ; and daughter, Heather Wilkerson, Decatur, IL.  In addition his grandchildren, Jessie Allen and Lukas Allen, Tempe, AZ; Jeremy Allen, Coulter, IA; Tessa Wilkerson and Mason Wilkerson, Decatur, IL.  And his favorite “sparing partner”, his mother in law, Dorothy Carlile, Buckeye, AZ.    Visitation will be at Thompson Valley West Funeral Chapel, 926 S. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ from 6-9 pm on Wed, September 1st, with a Rosary conducted at 7 pm.  Services will be at 10 am on Thursday, September 2nd at Thompson Chapel.  Burial services to follow at Resthaven Park Cemetery, 6290 W. Northern Ave., Glendale, AZ.  Memorials may be made in Andy’s name at Hospice of the Valley or the Arizona Humane Society.  A celebration of Andy’s life will be held at the Wilkerson home following the services.

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