John A. Vilkanskas, Jr.

John A. Vilkanskas Jr., a former resident of Westville, passed away at his home in Springfield, Oregon on January 17, 2025, at the age of 79. He was born on August 14, 1945, in Danville, Illinois, to the late John and Eleanor Vilkanskas.

John attended St. Mary’s Grade School and graduated from Schlarman High School. A few years after high school, John enlisted in the United States Navy Reserves, proudly serving on a ship off the VietNam coast during that conflict. After his honorable discharge, he returned home and worked primarily at Hyster and then General Motors, where he eventually retired.

John had a passion for hunting, especially with his father and brother. They looked forward to their occasional hunting trips joining his brother Tom in Kansas. John also enjoyed trapshooting and was a member of the Westville Sportsman’s Club.

John is survived by his companion Sandra Dunbar; his brother Tom and sister-in-law Debbie; nephew TJ (Lori) Vilkanskas and nieces Lydia Vilkanskas and Leah (Ben) Cohen; and 8 great nieces and nephews. John will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

A recitation of the Rosary will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2025 at 4:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home’s Urbas Chapel, located at 414 S. State Street in Westville. His family will greet guests following the Rosary until 5 pm that evening. A Mass of Christian Burial, officiated by Father Timothy Sauppé, will take place on Monday, February 3, 2025 at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 231 N. State Street, Westville. John will be laid to rest with military honors beside his parents at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery following services. Online condolences and fond memories can be shared on his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com