Maxwell Theodore Wilson

Maxwell “Max” T. Wilson, of Marengo, IL, passed from this life to his heavenly home on May 2, 2021. He was born on May 12, 1951 in Belvidere, IL to Theodore and Vivian (Lawson) Wilson. He was a graduate of the Marengo Community High School class of 1969 and attended Reppert School of Auctioneering in Decatur, Indiana. On May 31, 1975, he married his soulmate, Jean Frohling. During their nearly 46 years of marriage, they lived on a small farm north of Marengo and raised two wonderful sons.

Max worked nearly forty years at Techalloy/Central Wire in Union and a couple years at Arnold Engineering in Marengo. On March 1st of this year, he retired after ten years of service working indoor/outdoor maintenance at Marengo Community High School.

In addition to his full-time employment, he enjoyed working his family’s farm with older tractors and machinery. This became a lifelong hobby of researching and repairing this vintage equipment, often generously helping others with their repair and restoration needs. He enjoyed socializing with family, friends, and fellow antique tractor enthusiasts as a member of local collector clubs.

Many people have known and will miss his crooked smile and eyes that shone with love and laughter. He was often recognized by his John Deere ball caps and bib overalls.

Max was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Michael; nephew, Johnny Weyland; father-in-law, Albert Frohling; mother-in-law, Elvera Frohling; and brothers-in-law, Larry Frohling and Allan Frohling. He is survived and dearly missed by his loving and devoted wife, Jean; sons, Maxwell (Jennifer) and Benjamin (Jamie D’Andrea); grandson, Maxwell Stewart Wilson; brother, Steve (Mary) Wilson; sisters, Shari (John) Weyland and Valerie (David) Kennedy; brothers-in-law, Don (Judy) Frohling and Wayne (Liz Molbeck) Frohling; sisters-in-law, Mary Ellen (Larry) Wiles, Karen Frohling, and Mary Frohling; and many extended family members and friends.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial gifts may be made in his name to the charity of your choice.