Donald Gene Wilken was born on January 3, 1950 to LaVergne Angus and Alvin Wilken in Sterling Kansas. He was the grandson of Harry M. Angus a farmer and former Constable for Rice County. Don was a retired farmer from the East Washington Township in Rice County. He also served on the Township Board.

His childhood was spent on LaVergne’s family farm in Rice County. The family relocated to Alvin’s family farm in Burlington, Colorado where he completed his education at Burlington High School before entering Kansas State University where he obtained an associate degree in Agriculture. In his youth he was a proud active member of the FFA.

It was during his college experience that he met his fellow student Tom Hall and formed a life-long brotherhood that extended to the day of Don’s passing. Over many years adventures filled their summers in a canoe on river, lake or waterway across the USA and even Canada amassing in 22 full slide reals of documentation of their travels.

In the mid 80’S Don returned to the Angus homestead in Rice County to care for his ailing parents until both of their passings. His love for them was pure, and unwavering.

Don was a member of Christ Bible Church for over 30 years. Serving the church in its mission by any means from Board Member to lawn mowing. But the greatest of attributes were his faith, love, compassion, forgiving nature and the ability that everyone was a potential friend. A father figure to many, Don was present for several people. He supported all those who didn’t have the support they needed and didn’t have in their lives. Truly, Don filled that gap well with pride and love. We are all blessed by his presence in our lives.

Don is survived by his brother, Bill Wilken. His nephews, Wil C. Wilken and Thomas Forster. His nieces Kathi Wilken, Carolyn Holderness (Jamie), Teresa Gore-Lyon (Bob), Linda Cooper (Don Broyals). Many beloved great nieces and nephews.

Don was proceeded in death by his parents and great nephew.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM-5:00 PM Sunday, May 17, 2026 at the Christ Bible Church, 6 N. Cheney, Nickerson.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Monday, May 18, 2026 at the church, with burial to follow at the Wildmead Cemetery, also in Nickerson.  To leave a condolence for the family, visit:  www.inmanfh.com.