Jim Wilke

Jim Wilke was born October 29, 1942, to James Vernon Wilke and Lois (Forrester) Wilke. Tragically, his father perished in World War II when Jim was just 18 months old. His grandparents played a vital role in shaping his life, teaching him to hunt, fish, and appreciate the gifts of the outdoors. He was active in the Boy Scouts and Explorers, developing the independence and steady character that defined him throughout his life.

After graduating from Lincoln High School in Webster City in 1960, Jim attended and graduated from Webster City Junior College. He then completed a year of college in Idaho before working for the Rio Grande Railroad. Eventually, he returned home to Iowa.

In 1966, Jim married Carolyn Schmitt, and together they were blessed with four children.

Jim began his working years at Franklin Manufacturing in Webster City before following his passion for farming at Coates Farms in Otho, Iowa. In 1971, he purchased a 140-acre farm just south of Webster City, where he raised his family and poured himself into the work he loved. For 17 years he farmed the land with pride and determination, raised prize Charolais cattle and served as president of the Hamilton County Beef Producers.

When the farm crisis forced him to step away from the life he had built, Jim met that change the only way he knew how — with resilience and unwavering dedication. He returned to manufacturing at Electrolux, where his strong work ethic never wavered. Known for his reliability and commitment, he achieved a perfect attendance record and remained there until his retirement in 2009.

Golf became one of Jim’s greatest passions. He played countless rounds at Briggs Woods Golf Course in Webster City and participated in many area tournaments. After relocating to Fort Dodge in 2007, he continued enjoying the game at Lakeside Municipal Golf Course. Jim proudly achieved two holes-in-one during his lifetime. One of his favorite golf memories was playing TPC Sawgrass in the Jacksonville, Florida area with his son, Mike — a round he treasured deeply.

Beyond golf, Jim had a lifelong fascination with aviation and trains. He earned his private pilot’s license and loved flying with his family. Always adventurous, he even went skydiving once.

In 2019, Jim married Charla (Green) Wilke in Fort Dodge. Together they enjoyed many happy years, sharing rounds of golf and the simple joy of doing life side by side.

Jim is survived by his wife, Charla Wilke of Fort Dodge; his children, Michael Wilke of Altoona, Linda Wilke of Boxholm, Kevin (Graciela) Wilke of Austin, Texas, and Jon (Daisy) Wilke of Austin, Texas; and his beloved cat, Bob. He also leaves behind nine cherished grandchildren.

A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be announced at a later date, followed by a private family burial. Though he has walked beyond the earthly fairways we can see, his love, laughter, and steady presence remain etched in the hearts of those who shared the course of life with him. His round may be complete, but the memories he leaves behind will be treasured for generations. www.gundersonfuneralhome.com