Bernard D. Wilkie

Bernard "Bernie" Dale Wilkie, aged 94, of St. Johns, Michigan, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2024, in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. He was born on April 8, 1930, in St. Johns.
Bernie, known for lighting up the room with his wonderful smile and great sense of humor, was a beautiful soul who shared love with everyone he met. Described as the very best father, grandfather, and uncle, he will be dearly missed.
He is survived by his son, Brian D. Wilkie; daughter, Tina K. (Wilkie) Heyser, son-in-law Scott Heyser; granddaughter, Shaune M. Walton, her husband James Walton, and great-grandchildren Harper, Hudson, and Harrison Walton; grandsons Holden Heyser, Trey Tyler Heyser, and Tristan Heyser; daughter, Diane (Wilkie) Le Blanc; grandson Blake Schneider; granddaughter Ashly Wilkie; grandson Nathan Wilkie; sister-in-law Diane Lile, brother-in-law Freeman Hodges as well as his wife Shirley Befus-Wilkie and her family and children, Gary, Dale, Cameron, and Catherine in Canada. Bernie was lovingly known as Uncle Bun to his many nieces and nephews.
Bernie was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Kay (Hodges) Wilkie; son Kenneth W. Wilkie; daughter Rosemary J. Wilkie; grandson Joshua S. Wilkie; parents Rose and William Wilkie; sisters Claribel Mayers and Phyllis Wilkie; brothers Duane, Wilmer, Garth, and Richard Wilkie.
He attended Rodney B. Wilson High School in St. Johns, Michigan, Class of 1948 and furthered his education at Lansing Community College. Bernie served in the Navy and later pursued a career as an electrician for Diamond Reo and later Melling Forging Co. He also co-owned the Willow Lakes Motel and Grocery with his son Brian until he retired. He enjoyed winters in Sun City, AZ and summers in Calgary, Alberta Canada until moving to be closer to his family in North Myrtle Beach, SC five years ago.
In his free time, Bernie enjoyed traveling the world, golfing, bowling, hunting and gardening and spending time with his family.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 6, 2024, from 4-7PM at McGeehan Funeral Home, Keck-Coleman Chapel, 1500 Waterford Parkway, St. Johns, Michigan with the funeral service on Friday, June 7, 2024, at 11AM. Burial and Military Honors will follow at Mt. Rest Cemetery, St. Johns, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Embrace Hospice of South Carolina.
Bernie will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and love that he shared with all. May he rest in peace.
For further information, phone McGeehan Funeral Home at 989-224-4422.