Kenneth Lee Wilkey of Blackwell, Oklahoma, passed away late Wednesday evening, January 22, 2025, in the OU Medical Center in Edmond, Oklahoma, at the age of 89 years.

Kenneth Lee Wilkey was born on October 21, 1935, in Blackwell to Rosco L. and Edith F. Wilkey. He graduated Blackwell High School before attending Oklahoma State University in Stillwater where he earned a bachelor's degree in hotel and restaurant administration. While in college he entered the United States Air Force on June 30, 1954, and served during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged on June 29, 1962. He operated numerous hotel and resort properties and achieved 4-star mobile guide ratings. He also achieved number one rating with a Holiday Inn property in Alexandria, Virginia. He married Helen Montehermozo on June 2, 1998, in Newkirk, Oklahoma. He enjoyed fishing, watching television and his Oklahoma State Cowboys. He held membership in  St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Blackwell.

He is survived by his wife Helen Wilkey of Blackwell; three daughters, Sharon Daly and Karina Wilkey of Maryland, and Leandra Wilkey of Blackwell; a step-daughter, Jennifer Hawkins of Claremore; three step sons, Rex, Allan and Gary Punzalan, all of Blackwell; fourteen grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Chester Wilkey.

Services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m., January 28th in the St. Joseph's Catholic Church with a rosary service held at Roberts and Son Funeral Home Chapel at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 27th. Father Bala will officiate the services. Burial will be in the Blackwell Cemetery. Military rites will be performed by the United States Air Force.