The Villages, Florida, October 16, 2025
News Summary
The Villages, Florida, mourns the passing of Robert (Bob) John Wilk, a dedicated community member and decorated Vietnam War veteran. Wilk, who made substantial contributions to local organizations and established a successful funeral home, passed away at age 79. His legacy includes military honors, a commitment to community service, and a loving family. Funeral services are slated for October 17 at St. Anne Catholic Church in Ortonville. Wilk’s remarkable resilience, despite health challenges, exemplified his dedication to his family and country.
The Villages, Florida – Robert (Bob) John Wilk, a dedicated community member and decorated veteran, passed away on October 9, 2025, at the age of 79. Wilk’s legacy includes his extensive involvement in local service organizations, military honors, and his significant contributions to the funeral service profession.
Originally from Ortonville, Michigan, Wilk was born in Detroit to John and Lillian (nee Zielinski) Wilk. He was the youngest of four children, coming from a close-knit family that included three sisters: Christine Peters, Norma Wilk, and Barbara Mojrzjewski, all of whom preceded him in death.
Wilk graduated from Fordson High School in 1964, later earning a Bachelor’s degree in Mortuary Science from Wayne State University. In 1980, he and his late wife, Barbara (nee Surma) Wilk, established the Sherman Wilk Funeral Home in Ortonville, which they operated for decades. In recognition of his work, he was honored with 40 years of service by the Michigan Funeral Directors Association.
A Vietnam War veteran, Wilk served valiantly in the Blackhorse (11th Armored Cavalry Regiment), where he received both a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for his service. His commitment to the community extended beyond his military service; he actively participated in the Ortonville Lions Club and was a board member of the Brandon Fire Department. His contributions to the Ortonville community were recognized through his membership at St. Anne’s Church.
Wilk not only dedicated his life to service but also had a diverse range of interests. He enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, showing championship English Bulldogs, golfing, and reading. In recent years, he expanded his skills by learning both sign language and Spanish.
Wilk’s family includes three children: Catherine (Randy) Brosseau of New Jersey, John Wilk of Michigan, and Christopher (Sai) Wilk of California. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Raegan Brosseau, Jack Brosseau, Nathan Wilk, Justin Wilk, and Brayden Wilk.
Despite facing health challenges, including a lung transplant in 2021, Wilk exhibited remarkable resilience throughout his life. He passed away due to complications following a diagnosis of influenza.
Funeral services for Wilk are scheduled for October 17, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Anne Catholic Church in Ortonville. Visitation for family and friends will take place on October 16 from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Village Funeral Home in Ortonville. Prior to the mass, the public can pay their respects at the church starting at 10:00 AM. Following the service, Wilk will be interred at Ortonville Cemetery, where he will receive military honors to commemorate his dedication to his country.
The family requests thoughts and prayers during this difficult time as they remember and celebrate the life of Robert (Bob) John Wilk, a beloved father, grandfather, veteran, and community advocate.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press Obituary
- Legacy.com Obituary for Barbara Wilk
- Michigan Funeral Directors Association News
- Wikipedia: Vietnam War
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
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