John William Wilks passed away on October 19, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on July 5, 1944, in Racine, WI. He was the son of Herbert and Ruth (Bass) Wilks. John lived a life marked by intellect, devotion, and deep appreciation for the people and pursuits he loved most.
John grew up in Racine, Wisconsin, and graduated from Racine Lutheran High School with the Class of 1962. He continued his education at the University of Wisconsin, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, and later received his PhD from Cornell. His love of learning and scientific inquiry shaped much of his life and career.
For more than 40 years, John worked as a scientist for the Upjohn Company. It was there that he met the love of his life, Nancy Oleksy, beginning a partnership that would become the center of his life. Among all his many accomplishments, John treasured most his 42 years of marriage to Nancy. Together they built a life filled with companionship, shared interests, and enduring love.
John found joy in many pursuits that reflected both his curiosity and his warm enjoyment of life. He and Nancy loved spending the winters in Hawaii. He also loved boating on Indian Lake in their pontoon boat, with Nancy serving as captain. John enjoyed a great glass of wine and good food, often prepared by Nancy, and he served as president of the Wine Tasters Guild of Kalamazoo. Forever the scientist, he also served as president of the Indian Lake Association of Vicksburg, helping monitor the quality and safety of the water. His interests were not only personal pleasures, but also ways he contributed to the community around him.
His faith was also an important part of his life. John was proud of his Catholic faith and was a member of St. Catherine of Siena in Portage, Michigan.
He will be remembered with love for his intelligence, his devotion to Nancy, his enjoyment of good food, wine, and time on the water, and the steady way he shared his gifts with others.
John is preceded in death by his parents Herbert and Ruth Wilks.
He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Nancy; two sisters: Dorothy Krause, of WI; and Susan (Ronald) Krizan, of WI; and nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, October 27th, 2026, at 11am with Father Mark Vyverman officiating. The family will receive friends form 10am until the time of the service. Burial will follow at the Vicksburg Cemetery.
While at http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign John’s guestbook and share your favorite memory with his family.
The Wilks family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.
