James "Spanky" Watson Wilkerson

James Watson "Spanky" Wilkerson, age 42, of Chesterton, IN, passed away on Friday, October 14, 2022.

Spanky was born on August 22, 1980 in Hobart, IN to the late Roy Lucian and Janet Darlene (nee Lewis) Wilkerson.  He was a Union Painter with Local 460 and also worked as a mechanic.

Spanky was a great mechanic, whose skills will be missed by many.  In his quiet moments, Spanky loved traveling to Florida.  He could be found taking pictures of his kids and enjoying the sweet sea breeze but never stepping foot into the water itself.

Spanky was always thinking of others and hustled for those around him.  He would give you the shirt off his back and was willing to help anyone in need.  He had the best stories and could always make others laugh.  Spanky gave himself most to his children and his parents.  He is a devoted father, loving fiancé, beloved son and brother, and a dear uncle, nephew, cousin, and dear friend to all those who were lucky to know him.

Spanky is survived by his children: Watson, Jaxton, Jolie, and Jordan; fiancé: Michelle Cleveland; brothers: Roy (Debbie) Wilkerson; Tim Wilkerson, and Tony Wilkerson; aunts: Kay (Don) Wilson and Frances (Wayne) Gilbert; uncle: Roger (Deborah) O'Rourke; nieces: Shannon, Ariel, Kayla and Laura; nephews: James, Terry, Matthew, Jared and Liam; grand-nephews: Colson and Amenadiel; many cousins; and close friends: Guy Maldonado, Grabes Noriaga, Terry Anderson, and Brent Matthews.

Spanky is preceded in death by his parents: Roy and Janet; sister: Tina Wilkerson; and dear paternal grandparents: Watson and Catherine Wilkerson.

Family and friends may gather at Rees Funeral Homes, Olson Chapel (5341 Central Ave, Portage) on Saturday, October 22, 2022, from 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.  A Final Farewell will begin immediately following visitation at 12:00 P.M.  A Committal Service will follow at 12:30 P.M. from Calvary Cemetery with Pastor Justen Illyes officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Spanky's family.