Obituary of Albert Wilkening

Albert “Ron” Wilkening entered into eternal rest on Memorial Day May 28, 2018 at the age of 78. He was born September 1, 1939 to Albert C. Wilkening and Catherine L. Hughes Wilkening. Ron was born and raised in Western New York and married Victoria M. Humphreys on February 11, 1961. They moved to Arizona the following week, where they have called home ever since.They were married 57 years and together raised their family of four children.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents and survived by his wife Victoria, daughters Brenda Eldred (Ron), Linda Peterson (Lance), Rhonda Pezzorello (Nick), son Adam Wilkening (Grace), sister Katherine Engles, brothers Thomas and Chuck Wilkening, 17 grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren.

Ron was a successful entrepreneur including operating a grocery store, starting a casket manufacturing business, an office supply store in Cottonwood (CTS) , and a daycare center in Cottonwood (Kare Bear). After retiring he had many hobbies including playing bluegrass music (guitar), wood carving, painting, black and white photography, and travel. His proficiency with these many hobbies was very impressive as he would focus on one at a time over a period of years before moving on to the next one. He also thoroughly enjoyed spending time on the road with their RV and sharing stories of their many adventures.

Ron was a man of faith and very well respected by his family, members of the community, and many friends he made over the years. The type of person you would want to go to for advice and support with a challenging life situation or business project.

A funeral service will be held Friday, June 1, at 10:00am Faith Lutheran Church at 2021 E. Fir St, Cottonwood AZ. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Hilltop Preschool scholarship fund.