Franklin A. Wilder

Franklin “Frank” Arthur Wilder of Champaign, 79, passed away on March 2, 2026, at Carle Foundation Hospital, surrounded by his loved ones. The son of Elizabeth Ellen and Lester Lee Wilder, he was born on August 1st, 1946, in Concord, MI.

Franklin is survived by Billie (Blessing) Wilder, his wife of 60 years; children, Tobi (Jeff Muse) Wilder and Teri Wilder, and his beloved dog Molly Mae and grand-dogs Ginger Sue and Bella Jo.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Nora, Dora, Linda, and brother, Robert.

Franklin was a retired Army veteran, having served honorably for 2 years in Baumholder, Germany. He then had a full career with Kraft Foods for 34 years before his retirement.

Franklin enjoyed people, and after retirement, worked at Ace Hardware and Do it Best to stay active. He enjoyed making his girls happy, whether through sports cars or random surprises.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Champaign Chapel, 710 N. Neil St., Champaign, IL 61820. Officiating will be Rev. Lutz Braunig. Visitation will be held before the service from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. As per Franklin’s wishes, cremation will follow services.

Please join Franklin’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.