Thomas Jay Wilken, 83, of Milford, IL, passed away at 2:20 P.M. Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL. He was born on April 27, 1943, in Watseka, IL, the son of Dick and Dorothy (Sapp) Wilken. He married Eloise Kay Thompson on December 8, 1963, at Union Church in Cissna Park, IL. She preceded him in death.
Tom is survived by his daughter, Michelle (Dustin) Field of Sidney, IL; his son, Todd (Janus) Wilken of Bowling Green, KY; one sister, Rhonda (Steve) Arseneau of Martinton, IL; two brothers, Rich (Penny) Wilken of Milford, IL and Dan (Amy) Wilken of Milford, IL; five grandchildren, Alex Wilken of Lexington, KY, Cole (Caroline) Wilken of Lexington, KY, Drew Wilken of Bowling Green, KY, Sydney Jackson of Sidney, IL, and Ayden Field of Sidney, IL; one great-grandson, Jace Wilken of Lexington, KY; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife, Kay, Tom was also preceded in death by his parents, Dick and Dorothy Wilken and his sister, Dixie Fix.
Tom worked at Heatcraft in Danville as a punch press operator for 43 years until his retirement. His hobbies included hunting and fishing, and he enjoyed hobby farming. Tom especially enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and his dogs, as he had a love for animals.
Cremation rites will be accorded, and a graveside service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, September 10, 2026, at Cissna Park Cemetery in Cissna Park, IL, with Larry Johnson officiating.
Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com to view Tom’s eternal tribute page and to send the family condolences.
Anderson Funeral Home in Hoopeston is handling the arrangements.






