William F. Wilkie

December 10, 1926 ~ January 2, 2022
Born in:
Henderson County, NC
Resided in:
Arden, NC
Arden- William Forest Wilkie, 95, of Arden, died Sunday, January 2, 2022.
A native of Henderson County, he was a son of the late Forest and Annie Powers Wilkie. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Patricia J. Wilkie who died in 2011 as well as a son, Michael A. Wilkie, who died in 1999.
A United States Navy veteran serving during WWII, William retired from Inland Steel in East Chicago, IN after 35 years of service. In his younger years, he obtained his pilot’s license and flying became a cherished hobby. After his retirement, he and Patricia moved back home to be closer to family. He had a love for woodworking, gardening, and being outdoors watching and feeding the birds.
William is survived by three daughters, Lynn Kaplon (Bruce) of Hebron, IN, Patti Thornton (Brian) of Sun City Center, Fl and Kristin Wilkie of Sanford, NC; two sons, William C. Wilkie of Petersburg, IL and Timothy G. Wilkie (Cindy) of Rosman, NC; one brother, Harold E. Wilkie (Nellie) of Fletcher, NC; five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, January 10, 2022 at Calvary Episcopal Churchyard in Fletcher.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in William’s memory to a charity of your choice.
Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.
Services
Graveside Service: January 10, 2022 2:00 pm
Calvary Episcopal Churchyard
Hendersonville Road
Fletcher, NC 28732

Patti, Brian & family. We are thinking of you at this time. You are in our thoughts.
Kristin,
So sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Fond memories of your father, Bill, and your family who travel from Indiana each year to his home in Hooper’s Creek to renew family love and connections to Western North Carolina and his deep family roots. He was always upbeat with a “can do” attitude which mirrored that mountain spirit in which he grew up. We pray many fond and deep memories for you, as his children and family. Bill’s love for each of you was very evident and you may rest in that truth. God’s richest blessings to you all.
Love Shane