Donald Lee Wilke

Donald L. Wilke, of Parkton, Maryland, passed away on March 28, 2026.

Donald was the beloved husband of 33 years to the late Myrtle Wilke (née Bohr), affectionately known together as "Two Peas in a Pod." Donald was a devoted father to Jeremiah Wilke and his wife Kimberly, Zachary Wilke, and Rachael Wilke.

He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings: Helen Raines and her husband Ken; Fred Wilke and his wife Judy; Theresa Leonard and her husband Ron; Eleonora Sias; Diane Kincaid and her husband Donald; and Karen Brown and her husband Jim. He leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Donald was a lifelong Hereford Zone resident, growing up on his family's farm in Parkton, Maryland-a place where he spent much of his time after retirement and that remains deeply meaningful to his family. He was a star wrestler in high school, excelled in Ju-Jitsu, and had a lifelong love of the outdoors, finding great joy in traveling the open road on his motorcycle, visiting numerous national parks along the way.

An engineer and man of many talents and interests, to include auctioneering, Donald had a remarkable ability to fix and restore just about anything. Whether building the family home, beekeeping, beer making, repairing old radios, refinishing antiques, or tackling home improvement projects, he took pride in working with his hands and bringing new life to the things around him.

Donald was always present in his children's lives, supporting them in every personal and professional pursuit. A dedicated Scoutmaster, baseball coach, and Civil War reenactor, Donald embraced every opportunity to teach, lead, and connect with others.

He and Myrt shared a passion for history, WWII air shows, trains, and movies. After Myrt's passing, Donald found solace in taking up new hobbies such as ballroom dancing, Tai Chi, and volunteering for the historic railroad. He also loved animals, including his beloved dogs Mason, with whom he is now reunited, and Gracie. He spent many hours dog walking with his neighbors and caring for his grandpuppies.

Donald will be remembered for his huge heart, his selfless nature, skill, and the love he shared with his family and friends.

Family and friends will honor and celebrate Donald's life at the family owned Evans Life Celebration Home - 16924 York Road, Monkton, MD 21111, for a Visitation on Thursday, April, 9th 2026, from 1-3pm and 5-7pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in the Historic Church of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 315 N Constitution Ave, New Freedom, PA, on Friday, April 10th, 2026 at 11am. Interment to conclude all services at St. John the Baptist Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Susan G. Komen https://www.komen.org/ and/or St. Joseph Medical Center https://www.umms.org/sjmc/giving