Leon D. Wilhelms

Leon D. Wilhelms, age 83, of Freeport, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Nursing Home in Freeport.

Leon was born on May 16, 1943, in Freeport, the son of the late John and Helen (Moss) Wilhelms. He graduated from Freeport High School in 1961. Leon married Maureen Smith in 1962 at St. Catherine's, and they shared many years together until her passing in 2016.

Leon treasured spending weekends at Lake Puckaway, first creating lasting memories there with his children and later enjoying time at the family cottage with his daughter, her family, and his beloved grandchildren. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who especially enjoyed sharing those passions with his friends and son-in-law.

Leon found joy in life's simple pleasures: breakfast at the Beltline, searching for treasures at flea markets and garage sales, and adding to his coin collection. He greatly valued the friendships and camaraderie he shared with his coworkers at Rogers Ready Mix, where he worked for many years before retiring. One of his favorite traditions was spending Sundays with his son, enjoying visits together over KFC.

Above all, Leon's greatest joy was his grandchildren. He loved them deeply and cherished every opportunity to spend time with them.

He is survived by his son, John Wilhelms of Freeport, IL; daughter, Dawn (Steve) Levins of South Beloit; grandchildren, Alaina (Ryan) Levins of Caledonia, IL and Robert Levins of Rockton, IL; sisters, Rexanna Lamm of Freeport and Karen O’Connor of Freeport. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Maureen and brother Arnie.

Services will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Peace at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport. There will be a visitation before the service beginning at 12:00 p.m. Condolences may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com.