Donald Eugene Wilhelm, 58, died on October 13, 2026 in the presence of his son Ben and daughter Natalie. He was born August 26, 1968 to William and Wilma Wilhelm (maiden name Shrader).

As a young man, Don enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served in the Military Police and was awarded the Military Police of the Quarter award. After being honorably discharged, Don worked as a Correctional Officer at Westville Correctional Facility. From there he found a job at Bethlehem Steel (now Cleveland Cliffs), where he worked as a millwright for three decades.

Though Don lived in Indiana most of his life, he loved traveling and was known for taking ski trips and beach vacations. He enjoyed taking his boat out on the water to fish or just soak up the sun. When he wasn’t driving across the nation, he could often be found with a guitar in his hands. He was passionate about music and played in a band with his friends for many years. His work-hard-play-hard attitude inspires his children to this day.

Don was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his four children, five grandchildren, his sister Beth, and brother Bill.

A memorial service will be held on October 27th at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home in Chesterton. Visitation will begin at 11 am, with services to follow at 12 pm.

If you would like to honor Don’s life, please consider becoming a registered organ donor or making a donation to the University of Chicago Medicine, who worked tirelessly for Don and his children.