Rex Wilkes

After a long illness Rex went to be with our lord November 27, 2023 with his loving wife Janet by his side.

Rex was born in Chauncey Ohio on September 4, 1937 to Kenneth C. and Lavella M. (Locke) Wilkes. Rex was the second oldest out of four boys, Kenny Wilkes, Fred Wilkes and Larry Wilkes. Rex's Aunt Glen introduced Rex and his brothers to the 4th Avenue Church of God where he attended and met the love of his life, Janet Smeck.

Rex and his brothers attended North Linden Elementary School and graduated Linden McKinley High School in 1955. Rex went on to OSU but after 1 year opted to pursue his love of the auto industry.

Rex and Janet dated for 5 years and were married 4/19/1959. Rex was a founding member of Meadow Park Church of God and a genuine patriot. He loved God and his country and wore the red white and blue with pride. Rex wanted badly to be in the armed forces but was disappointed to be found 4F. He celebrated his country by carrying on patriotic volunteer functions such as 4th of July parades and fundraising events and believed vehemently in the 2nd Amendment.

Rex started as a line mechanic, with specialty in Corvair's and Corvettes at Maxton Chevrolet. He very quickly moved through the ranks and became Assistant to the President until he left and joined Dealers Alliance Company as Claims Manager.

Rex's passion was Janet, the church and automobile restoration. He was a member of the Model A Restores Club of America (MARC), the local Scioto Club serving in many key roles at the national and local levels. He was also a member of the V-8 Ford Club of America. Rex and Janet loved swap meets and vintage car shows making the annual trek to Carlisle and Hershy PA, buying and selling there for over 25 years.

In addition to his love of automobiles, Rex was an avid outdoorsman and hunter. He made annual trips to various locations for deer hunts and loved the competition of Skeet shoots. Rex enjoyed volunteerism and was a member of the Mason's #4 Worthington Lodge for over 50 years he was also a member of the Shriners International.

Rex is survived by his loving wife Janet, his brothers Fred and Larry and numerous Nieces and Nephews across the United States. He is proceeded in death by his parents Kenneth and Lavella Wilkes, his older brother Kenny Wilkes and Aunt Glen.

Rex will be sorely missed by the people who loved him most, and by the hobbyists who learned so much from him about automobiles and the restoration of them.

Family and friends may call at Newcomer NW Chapel, 10051 Brewster Ln. Powell, Ohio 43065 on Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 10:30am-12:30pm for visitation hours. A Memorial Service will follow starting at 12:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made to any favorite charity in Rex's honor.

Rex's services will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Click here. to view the service.