Robert Wilkens

Robert John Wilkens, 87, formely of Gilman, passed away on September 12, 2018 at Grandview Heights Nursing and Rehab Center. A memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 18, at the Mitchell Family Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. with a Prayer Service to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to the Iowa River Hospice House in Robert’s name. Casual attire is encouraged for the visitation. For condolences please visit www.Mitchellfh.com or call (641)-844-1234. The Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Robert and his family. Robert “Bob” was born in Carroll, Iowa to the parents of William and Olive (Piper) Wilkens on October 15, 1930.  After graduating high school Bob honorably served his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. After his return from the Navy, Bob was united in marriage to Mildred Balmer at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church on April 16, 1951. The two made their lives together in Marshalltown. In 1963 they moved to rural Gilman. He was employed for his uncle as a painter, afterwards he worked for Mead’s Dairy from 1955 to 1983 while farming as well. He also worked for Cessford Construction until his retirement. In his free time Bob loved to fish and hunt pheasants, and also play cards. When the weather was right he also enjoyed playing a round of golf. Bob was a family man and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. Left to cherish Bob’s memory is his wife of 67 years Mildred, children: Steve (Jean) Wilkens, Bob (Nancy) Wilkens, Don (Veronica) Wilkens, Roger (Dianne) Wilkens, Sheryl Wilkens, Sandy (Doug) Weir, Barb (Randi) Johnson, and daughter-in-law Sadie Wilkens, 30 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren, and brother Harry (Regina) Wilkens. He is preceded in death by his parents William and Olive, son Ed, daughter Deb, grandson Bobby, and sister Mary Lou Rubenbauer.