William Thomas Wilson, Jr.

William Thomas "Tom" Wilson Jr., 81, of Vermilion, died Friday, June 28, 2024 at Mill Manor Nursing Home after a brief illness.

William was born September 25, 1942, in Mobile, AL, and moved to Ohio in 1958. He had been living in Texas before recently returning to Vermilion.

William worked for Ford Motor Co., Lorain, as a repairman for 35 years, retiring in 1996. He was 2nd generation in a 4th generation of Ford workers.

He had a passion for racing and was an avid NASCAR fan. He enjoyed the great outdoors especially fishing and birding with countless serene hours by the water. Motorcycles were another of his great loves; he frequently participated in rides and cherished the camaraderie of riding with friends and family on the open road.  He also loved the life he built in Texas, where he enjoyed ranching and attending rodeos.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ida Kathy Wilson of Montgomery, TX; daughters Shelley (Don) Byrne of Montgomery, TX, and Sande (Shawn) Allgauer of Montgomery, TX; son Brian (Julie) Wilson of Vermilion; 10 grandchildren, Chris Adams, Morgen Baker, Nikki Callaway, Jordan Fox, Tate Wilson, Courtney Byrne, Natalie Rhoades, Kaylee Elton, Zach Allgauer and Claudia Wilson. 23 great-grandchildren.

William was preceded in death by his parents, William Thomas Sr. and Billie Florence (nee Patterson) Wilson, and his brother, Freddie "Ronnie" Wilson.

Graveside services will be held Friday, July 5, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Maple Grove Cemetery, Vermilion.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the American Diabetes Association or a charity of their choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.