Henry “Hank” James Thilking, Jr. of Ste. Genevieve passed on to his Heavenly home on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at John Cochran VA Hospital in St. Louis at the age of 75.
He was born in St. Louis, Missouri on October 5, 1947, to the late Henry James Thilking, Sr. and Violet (Beckline) Hatfield.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, John Helm; a brother-in-law, Ronnie Gibson and a nephew, Fred Thilking.
“Hank” grew up in the New Offenburg area in rural Ste. Genevieve County. He graduated from Ste. Genevieve High School and went on to Rankin Technical School where he received certification as a mechanic.
In 1968, Hank enlisted in the U. S. Navy where he proudly served his country as a Seabee stationed in the Bahamas.
He spent most of his life as a mechanic and had a reputation as an accomplished mechanic who many sought advice from.
He was an avid MOPAR “Dodge” enthusiast and builder of racing engines.
He mostly loved family get-togethers and having lots of kids around him all the time. He was a faithful member of Genevieve Baptist Church and read his Bible faithfully.
Hank was also a member of the Disabled American Veterans.
Survivors include the love of his life, Kathy (Kennedy) Thilking, his wife of 41 years; his children, Dana (Bruce) Keever, Sheila (Jesse) Killian, Shannon Alifonso, Chris (Desiree) Stamm, Renae (Eric) Wehmeier, and Tricia (J.D.) Thilking; a brother Wayne (Frannie) Thilking; a sister, Elaine Gibson; special nephew, Ronnie “Skeeze” Gibson; and several beloved grandchildren; great grandchildren; nieces and nephews, all of whom loved Hank.
Visitation was held on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel and Thursday morning from 7 a.m. until the time of the Funeral at 11 a.m. in the Cozean Chapel with Rev. Fred Killian officiating.
Interment with military honors followed at Genevieve Baptist Church Cemetery.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to Disabled American Veterans.
View the tribute video and share your condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.