William D. "Don" Wilkerson

William D. “Don” Wilkerson, 84, of Independence, MO, passed away Tuesday, December 3rd 2013. A visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00 p.m., December 9th at Carson Speaks Chapel. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the chapel. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery. Don was born November 12, 1929 in Ash Grove, MO to Florence La Fern (Hagar) and Willie Paul Wilkerson as their only child. He lost his father at a young age and moved frequently with his mother and stepfather. He attended many different schools and also studied law at home in adulthood. Don was a bricklayer by trade working for Bricklayers Local Union 4 as their Business Manager. Using his knowledge of Law, he was also Chief Negotiator for the Builders Association, Kansas City Chapter. Don married his precious wife of 66 years, Lou (Thummel), on November 4, 1947. Together, they raised four children. Despite the required travel for work, he was always home for family occasions. Don enjoyed traveling with his family, camping, square dancing with his wife, fishing with grandchildren, studying, and creating lasting friendships. Don had touched the lives of so many with his kindness, humor, and generosity. He will always be remembered for saying, “Has anyone told you, today, how precious you are? Well, let me be the first.” He is forever loved and will be missed. Don is survived by wife, Lou, of the home; son, Gary Wilkerson and wife Suzanne of Overland Park, KS; daughter, Linda Ham and husband Mike of Franklin, TN; daughter, Cindy Neef and husband Frank of Seagrove, NC; daughter, Terrie Pitts and husband Gary of Merriam, KS; grandchildren, Matt, Casey, Chris, Gabriel, Danielle, and Marc; great grandchildren, Joey and Ryan. The family encourages contributions to Foundation for Hospice Care Inc. c/o Grace Hospice 9233 Ward Pkwy #201 Kansas City, MO 64113, in his memory. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Carson-Speaks Chapel (816) 252-7900)