Edwin L. Wilkinson

Edwin Leete Wilkinson, 76, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, in Billings, MT. Ed was a longtime resident of Shelby, Montana and recently relocated to Billings to be closer to family and was a resident at Westpark Village.

 He was born February 2, 1949, in Oakland, California to Edwin and Rosemary (Chapman) Wilkinson. At the age of 18, he was drafted and served 2 tours with the Army in the Vietnam. He was very proud of his service to his country. After discharge, he attended the University of California Berkeley where he received his accounting degree and later CPA certification. Ed’s love for the mountains and appreciation of wildlife drew him to Montana. He made his home in Livingston where he held roots and many cherished friendships. He worked for several years as the Park County Auditor where he met Tessa Whiting. They were married in 1990 and had 3 children. Ed went on to work for the Department of Interior which took them to Virginia, Washington DC, Colorado and Washington. In 1997, he transferred to the Public Health Service where he was commissioned to be a part of the start-up team for the new Federal Detention Center in SeaTac, Washington. With his heart always in Montana, he made it back in 2002 were he worked for the FDA as a border patrol officer until he retired.

Ed always had a passion for reading and books. His collection of books was not only vast, but also impressive with many collectable classics. He was always learning something new and had a strong belief in education. He was full of many stories from his journey through life and books. He loved to share his knowledge, and if you gave him an ear and asked questions, he would keep the conversation going as time allowed.

Ed loved the outdoors! He was an avid walker. He needed the freedom to explore and be free with his thoughts. Some of his favorite places were the majestic surroundings of Livingston with Yellowstone National Park on top of the list. It was a favorite destination for him to share and make memories with his children.

Ed is survived by his three children: Christian (Courtney) Wilkinson of Billings, Montana, Drew Wilkinson of Billings, Montana and Emmy Wilkinson of Portland, Oregon; former wife, Tessa Whiting-Weeks (Robert) of Billings, MT; two brothers: Donald Wilkinson of California and Richard Wilkinson of Oregon;  Grandchildren: Lainey Wilkinson

Ed was preceded in death by his parents Edwin and Rosemary (Chapman) Wilkinson.

Graveside funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday June 27, 2025 at Mt. View Cemetery in Livingston, Montana

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Franzen-Davis Funeral Home is honored to care for Ed and his family.