Claude "Doug" Gilkerson

Claude “Doug” Gilkerson, 96 of Bellaire, died peacefully June 14, 2020 at home.  He was born August 30, 1923 in East Jordan the son of Claud and Bertha (Sloop) Gilkerson.

Doug proudly served in the US Army during World War II.  On January 20, 1945, while on active combat duty in the Battle of the Bulge he was wounded.  After his medical release from the Army he received his Purple Heart for his dedication and sacrifice.

On February 2, 1946 in Pleasant Valley, he married Imogene Petrie.  Together they enjoyed 72 years of marriage.  They loved to ride snowmobiles, go camping, and spent many years traveling.  They found Texas to be a big part of their life in their later years during the winter months.  In his spare time Doug could be found wood carving.

Doug retired from the USDA in Bellaire.  He was a member of the Bellaire Community United Methodist Church, the American Legion and was a founding member of the Central Lake V.F.W.

Left to cherish his memory are his children Judy (Bob) Gregg of Central Lake, Claude (Joyce) Gilkerson of Central Lake, four grandchildren Karen (Al) Miglio of Bellaire, Kelly (Scott) Zimmerman of Cary, NC, Robert (Julie) Gregg of Allendale, MI, Jeffrey (Megan) Gilkerson of Chicago, IL, and 3 great grandchildren Claudia and Oliva Zimmerman, and Dean Gilkerson.  Also surviving is his brother Dean (Marlene) Gilkerson of Florida, and sister Kay (Jim) Spence of East Jordan.  He was preceded in death by his wife Imogene (2018), siblings Ina Slough, Ella Gilkerson, Lena Brown, Donna Gilkerson, Wayne Gilkerson, and Bill Gilkerson.

Funeral services will be held Friday, June 19, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Home.  The family will receive friends Thursday, June 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. and again from 10 a.m. until the time of service.  Interment with Military Honors will follow in Dunsmore Cemetery, Echo Twp.   Memorial contributions can be given to Bellaire Community United Methodist Church, PO BOX 235, Bellaire, MI 49615.

Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.