Donald Wayne Gilkison, 68, Independence, MO, passed away Sunday, May 10, 2015. Visitation will be 6-8 at New Salem Funeral Home, 1823 N. Blue Mills Road, Independence MO. A celebration of life will be held Thursday, May 14, 10:00 AM. at Susquehanna Assembly of God, 622 N. Jennings Road, Independence MO. Burial will be at Leavenworth National Cemetery.
Don was a dedicated member of Courageous Life Church. Per his wishes, donations may be made in his honor to Courageous Life’s building fund, 18703 E. Salisbury Road, Independence MO 64056.
Don was born in Atchison KS on December 21, 1946, to Alvin Samuel and Ruth Bernece (Williams) Gilkison. He graduated from Atchison High School in 1965 and played football for Northwest Missouri State College and Highland Junior College before entering the Air Force in 1967, where he served for four years. On July 30, 1967, he married his high school sweetheart, Carol Jansen, and they began their married life at McChord AFB, Tacoma, Washington.
Don worked at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant for 28 years and retired in February, 2013. He worked in many areas of the plant, but thoroughly enjoyed his last position in the Research and Development Department.
Don was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Larry David Gilkison. He is survived by his wife, Carol, of the home, daughters Kim (Brad) Oyler, and Kara (David) Messner, son Kevin (Jennifer) Gilkison, and eight grandchildren.
Don enjoyed many camping trips in Estes Park with the family, riding his bike several years in the MS 150, cruising with friends on his BMW motorcycle and driving his Mini Cooper with his wife by his side. Don loved to share his Christian faith and devoted his life to mentoring men who needed not only friendship, but discipleship. This was his greatest passion. Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home, Independence MO 816-796-8600