Michael F. Wilkinson

Nov. 23, 1945 – July 14, 2022

Michael F. Wilkinson of Crawfordsville passed away Thursday at St. Vincent’s.  He was 76 years old.

Born Nov. 23, 1945 in Lafayette, he was the son of Ernest Wilkinson and Mildred Seiters Wilkinson.

He was called Mick by his family and known as “Daddy-o” around town. 

Mr. Wilkinson served in the Army from 1968-1970, stationed in Germany.  He then enlisted in the reserves, serving until 1974.  He became a truck driver and served as an extra in the movie Convoy.  He also participated in the first ever tractor-trailer race in Atlanta in 1979.  He was an avid CB user, under the handle “Blockbuster.”  He later worked at Pool’s in Crawfordsville, which became Ace Hardware.

Survivors include his brother, John (Doris) Wilkinson of Otterbein; brother, Larry Wilkinson of Lafayette; brother, Jim (Tammy) Wilkinson of LaPorte; sister, Donna (Joe) Bryant of Otterbein; brother, Jerry Wilkinson of Kentland; brother, Dave Wilkinson of Montmorenci; sister, Rose of Lafayette; many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his neighbor, friend and P.O. A. whom he looked upon as a son, Kevin Knee (Kerri Johnson) of Crawfordsville, along with their children, who he regarded as grandchildren, Kevin Knee, Jr., Joanna Johnson, Yazmen Doerr, Reece Johnson, Dakota Walls and Grace Knee.

He was preceded in death by his long-time companion, Marilyn Tibbett; parents; brother, Ronnie; and two sisters, Helen and Carolyn.

Visitation is scheduled from 4 – 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 19 at Burkhart Funeral Home.  Services will be held at 6 p.m. with military rites by the American Legion Post 72 honor guard.  He will be laid to rest at Freedom Cemetery at a later date.

Online condolences may be made at www.BurkhartFH.com.