Milton Wilkes

M. Dale Wilkes, 90, 4185 E. Fox Run Drive, Vincennes, passed away at 2:15 a.m. on Thursday, August 4, 2011 at his residence. Born February 10, 1921, in Vincennes, he was the son of Milton S. and Margaret E. (Thompson) Wilkes.Dale graduated from Lincoln High School in 1940. He entered into military service in 1942. He flew 33 night missions over Europe as a 1st pilot on B-24's. He was the recipient of several decorations and awards among which was the Air Medal on four separate occasions, along with the Presidential Unit Citation. Upon returning to the United States he instructed in B-29's and was discharged in 1947. Recalled in 1949 and upon release he maintained an Air Force Reserve status and was assigned to the Air Force Academy from 1962-1974. Dale retired with the rank of Colonel, USAF.In business Dale was co-owner of the Airline Drive Inn and later built the El Rancho Motel, both in Westport, IL. He was secretary of the Vincennes Chamber of Commerce from 1954-1958. A member of the Bi-State Airport Authority 1970-1978 and the Vincennes School Board 1960-1962. He owned and operated Ewing Printing from 1959-1983 and the Vincennes Sand and Gravel from 1966-1969.He was a past member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Masonic Lodge and Shriners. He was active in the Vincennes Elks Club for over 50 years.He was married to Dorothy J. (McGillivary) Wilkes who passed away in 1978.Survivors include his wife, Freda M. (Pendleton) Wilkes; daughters, Michele Lorenz of Bellingham, WA and Penny J. Flaherty of Santa Ana, CA; stepchildren, Linda Fox of Vincennes, Vicki Phelan of Indianapolis, Gina Petty of Indianapolis and Rodney Haywood of New Albany, IN; grandson, Michael Flaherty of San Deigo, CA; four step-grandchildren; six step-great-grandchildren and two step-great-great grandchildren and sister, Anna Seed of Branson, MO.Preceding Dale in death were his parents; first wife, Dorothy Wilkes; six brothers and one sister.Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 13, at 2:00 p.m. at Goodwin Funeral Home, 524 Broadway St. with Rev. John Groves officiating. Entombment will be in the Tower Mausoleum in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family on Saturday from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.Memorial contributions may be made to donor's choice.Online condolences may be sent through www.goodwinfamilyfh.com