Kenosha---In story after story at his funeral service Monday, Kenosha Judge Michael Wilk was described as an even-handed and compassionate jurist who always had time for friends and family and wasn’t afraid to lend a hand for a good community cause.
Wilk died last week at the age of 76 following a brief illness. Monday’s service was held before several hundred in the gym of the Boys and Girls Club.
"He was known as a careful, scholarly and deliberate judge who gave everyone in the courtroom a chance to tell his or her story, " said Rabbi Dena Feingold. "He listened intently and ruled with compassion."
In addition to his impact from the bench, Wilk benefited numerous community groups by sitting on their boards or volunteering in some other way.
For all of his accomplishments and good works, Wilk might’ve been best known as someone who had a genuine concern for all whom crossed his path.
Speaking at Monday's service, Wilk's daughter, Deborah, said his father's love for others, patience, optimism and emopahty shown through in the last words he spoke to her from his hospital bed: "I love you. It's going to be okay."
Also speaking at the service were Wilk's son, David, who served along side his father as a Kenosha judge, and one of Wilk's grandchildren, Jackson.
For an audio recording of Monday's funeral service, click here.
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