Donald “Don” Wilson, 90, of Robinson, IL, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2024, in the warmth and comfort of his home. Born October 8, 1934, in Robinson, Don was the beloved son of Otho & Irene (Malcolm) Wilson, who preceded him in death.
On February 5, 1954, Don married his cherished wife, Doris Randolph, with whom he shared a lifetime of devotion until her passing on April 21, 2024. Their love was the anchor for their family, and together, they built a home and legacy that lives on in the hearts of their children and grandchildren.
Don is survived by his children, Sandy & Stephen Livengood (Effingham, IL) and Mark & Winetta Wilson (Robinson, IL). He was a proud grandfather to Jonathan & Kerrith Livengood, Shanna & Ryan Webb, and Jody & Toby White, and he adored his great-grandchildren: Talan, Oliver, Dexter, and Aydia, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride. He is also survived by his brother, Eldon Wilson, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Raised on a farm in Robinson, Don graduated from Robinson High School in 1952. Although he spent a brief time in the National Guard, it was his dedication to his community and family that truly shaped his life. He began his career at L.S. Heath and later owned and operated a Marathon Gas Station in Robinson, near the high school, where he met many people and built lasting relationships. After selling the station, he returned to L.S. Heath briefly and also worked as a mechanic for a trucking company before dedicating over 25 years of service to Marathon Oil, from 1969 to 1995.
A man of many talents and interests, Don was always busy, embodying the spirit of a true craftsman. He had a deep love for the land, raising horses and cattle over the years and farming a small plot that he tended with pride. Don was a master of his hands, whether building his barn from the ground up, working in his machine shop, or later, in his wood shop. He built his own sawmill, crafted tools to make his work easier, and even designed an elevator to haul hay bales, embodying the ingenuity and resourcefulness that defined him.
One of his greatest projects was the complete restoration of a 1967 Chevy Pickup with his son, Mark-a labor of love that represented his bond with family and his unending pursuit of craftsmanship. Whether he was working in his garden, fabricating parts, or fixing up cars, Don found joy in hard work and creativity.
Don’s faith was an important part of his life. He was a devoted member of Dayspring Christian Fellowship in Trimble.
Donald Wilson leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unshakable family values. He was a builder in every sense-of things, of dreams, and of lives touched by his kindness and strength. He will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
A time of visitation will be held from 12:00-2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 17th at Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will immediately follow and be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, with Pastor Butch Woods officiating. For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream. Burial will be in the Robinson New Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to “Dayspring Christian Fellowship”, with envelopes available at the funeral home.
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