Norman Wilks

Norman D. Wilks, 77, lifelong resident of Mancelona, completed his journey here on earth and went to spend eternity with his Savior, Sunday, October 2, 2011 surrounded by his loving family. He was born March 31, 1934 in Mancelona the son of Homer D. and Edith E. (Peterson) Wilks. Norm graduated from Mancelona High School in 1952 and proudly served in the U.S. Army. He retired from Dura Automotive after 42 years of dedicated service. Norm was a kind, gentle, wonderful father and husband. Above all, he was "Papa" to his adoring grandchildren who will carry on his legacy. He was a man of faith with a strong conviction of his beliefs. He enjoyed gardening, pickling, and canning for his family and friends. He was "the fixer of all things broken" and was a gifted carpenter. Norms most cherished times were spent with his grandchildren and children camping and creating memories, laughter, and joy. On April 2, 1975, in Mancelona he married his beloved wife Barbara Jean Chambers who survives. Also surviving are his children Brent (Bobby Wagner) Wilks of Mancelona, daughter in law Pam Wilks of South Carolina, daughter Pam (David) Ciganick of Bellaire, daughter Christine (George) Niepoth of Bellaire, grandchildren Brandon, Amber ,Tanner, Dillon, MacKenzie, Halle, Chloe, Lexi Jean, Luke, and a sister Maxine Wilks of Mancelona. He was preceded in death by his son Brian in 1999, his parents, his brother Donald Wilks and sister Doris Sexton. Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 6, at 1 p.m. at the Antrim Church of Christ with Pastor Mark McCool officiating. Interment will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Mancelona. The family will receive friends Wednesday, October 5, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Mancelona Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes and Thursday, October 6, from Noon until the time of service. Memorial donations may be directed to the Antrim Church of Christ. Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.