Wayne Thilking

Wayne L. Thilking, of Ste. Genevieve, entered into eternal rest on November 30, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loved ones. He was 76 years old. Born on September 18, 1949, in St. Louis, Missouri, he was the son of the late Henry James Thilking Sr. and Violet (Caugh) Hatfield.

Wayne is survived by his beloved wife, Francis “Frannie” (Kennedy) Thilking; his daughters, Laura (Dean) Resinger of Farmington, Barbie (Harley Fenwick) Minks of Farmington, and Misty Varnell of Elk City, Oklahoma; and his grandchildren, Les Thilking, Steve (Brooke) Minks III, Ashley (George) Vinson, Stephanie (Caleb) Dunn, Jathan Thilking, Brileigh (Jacob) Francis, and Shane Minks. He also leaves behind seven great-grandchildren—Lucy, Bane, George, Lilah, Gracie, Korbyn, and Damon; his sister, Elaine Gibson of Bloomsdale; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by his son Fred Thilking, his brother Henry “Hank” James Thilking Jr., and his brother-in-law Ronnie Gibson.

Wayne proudly served his country as a United States Army veteran. He later worked for the Chrysler Corporation for twenty years as a forklift operator and assembly line supply worker. A man who loved the outdoors and simple pleasures, he enjoyed fishing, camping, ATV riding, hot rod cars, and spending time watching wrestling and football.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel, officiated by Pastor Fred Killian. Interment will follow at Genevieve Baptist Church Cemetery.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to the Farmington VFW Post #5896, 814 East Karsch Blvd.,Farmington, MO 63640