Eleanor was born on May 1, 1924, in Chicago, the daughter of Frank and Helen (Cosentino) Catrambone. She married Donald N. Wilkin, DDS, on February 3, 1951, in Chicago. He preceded her in death on August 15, 2002. Eleanor was employed as a teacher and office manager, and was also a homemaker. She was a member of St. Andrew Catholic Church in Rock Falls, where she was active with the Altar and Rosary Society. She enjoyed flower gardening, sewing, cooking, playing Bridge, and serving as an election judge for many years. Eleanor was a member of the Rock Falls Women’s Club.
She is survived by six children, Lenora Wilkin of Sterling, Stephen (Kristi) Wilkin of Wyoming, MI, Marcia Wilkin of Rock Falls, Richard Wilkin of Ohio, IL, David (Sandra) Wilkin of Sycamore, and Paul (Ingrid) Wilkin of Bolingbrook; one sister, Annette (Gene) Thomas of Chicago; one sister-in-law, Lois Catrambone; five grandchildren, Erik (Amanda) Wilkin, Chanda (Mark) Powell, Nathan (Kelsie) Wilkin, Richele Wilkin, and Donald Wilkin; and eight great grandchildren, Payton, Wyatt, Isaac, Paesyn, Harley, Karly, Skye, and TJ.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; one son, Donald N. Wilkin, II; two brothers, Dr. Dominic Catrambone and Frank Catrambone; four sisters, Marianne Cozzone and Elaine Arkema; and twin sisters shortly after birth.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Rock Falls. Celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM with Reverend Richard Russo officiating.
A memorial has been established.
Online condolences may be sent to www.mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com.
