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 Eugene Wilkinson 1917-2008 Gene Wilkinson’s life began in Folkstone, England. His mother was a WWI war bride and brought her young son to Canada. Gene met his first wife, Tina Unger, at a work camp, and they married and moved to Dawson Creek where he built his own house. The house is a comfortable warm space and is the house he lived in for the rest of his life. Gene Wilkinson was an only child but married into a family of 15 children. All of them regarded Gene as a brother and a man they respected and relied on. Over the years, while working for others, he would bring in extra money using his ingenuity and community spirit. He called square dances, provided music at functions, instructed and demonstrated dances, and provided background music to stores in Dawson. He was his own sound man and technician. He developed a love of electronics that grew to light up the town every Christmas season. Gene’s displays lit up the hillside of Dawson for more than 30 years. With a Christmas message flashing from what became known as the "Ho Ho Ho House", and Santa waving to all the cars going up 8th street, his ingenuity amazed and amused Dawson Creek as they watched Rudolph's red nose bobbing up and down, long before such things could be purchased at the store. Throughout his life he loved to take part in community events. He attended and played at the music festivals and community celebrations, drove his Model-T's and other cars in parades every opportunity that he could, and was honored as Dawson's Citizen of the Year. When Tina passed away, his family thought he might start to slow down a little and lead a quieter life. But there grew a twinkle in his eye and a slightly higher spring in his step. Her name was Madeleine. She has been a wonderful and happy part of his life. They danced their way across the country every year to Manitou Lake in Saskatchewan, drove in the parades and were an active part of the community. Together they volunteered at the Manor and were a part of the events and celebrations there, dressing up in costumes to dance and share music, they volunteered for Meals on Wheels for more than 13 years, a member of the Vintage Car Club for more than 30, the Historical Society, and the Senior's Hall. He continued dancing up to and past his 90th Birthday. Gene died peacefully in his sleep at the wonderful age of 90. Gene was predeceased by his first wife Tina and daughter Bonnie. He is survived by his wife Madeleine Wilkinson, daughter Gwen Silk, grandchildren: Kurt (Sherri) Silk, Lincoln (Michelle) Silk, Amanda Swan, Bradley Wilkinson and Denise Silk, great-grandchildren: Kristi, Kari, Brennen and Hudson Silk. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service was held on May 12, 2008 at the Senior Citizen’s Hall, Dawson Creek, British Columbia. Officiated by Pat O’Reilly. |
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