Wilson Trueman "Bill" Wilkes

Wilson "Bill" Trueman Wilkes, a resident of Clawson, Michigan, passed away at his home on August 9, 2025, at the age of 71.

Born on November 3, 1953, in Detroit, Michigan, Bill was the son of the late Otho Lewis and Mildred Effie (née Trueman) Wilkes. He was raised in Royal Oak and graduated from Dondero High School. Gifted with a natural talent for working with his hands, Bill spent several years as a freelance handyman and also lent his creativity to designing sets for movies filmed in Michigan. He later retired, but his skills and resourcefulness remained a defining part of who he was.

In his free time, Bill enjoyed photography, attending car shows, and restoring old cars and motorcycles-projects in which his skill truly shone. He shared a close bond with his son, with whom he lived in Florida for several years, cherishing the time they spent together. Though he did not have pets of his own, Bill loved animals and was especially fond of his son's dog.

Bill will be remembered for his craftsmanship, his quiet kindness, and his love for simple pleasures. He is survived by his son, Kyle Wilkes; his brother, Robert (Carlene) Wilkes; and his nieces, Erin (Derek) Behke and Heather (Tom) Lauzon. He is preceded in death by his parents, Otho and Mildred Wilkes, and his brother, Richard Wilkes.

Funeral services will be private. Those wishing to make contributions in memory of Bill may do so to Habitat for Humanity.