Harold Dean Wikle

Harold Dean Wikle, age 78, of Sylva died Thursday, March 31, 2016 at Harris Regional Hospital. A lifelong resident of Jackson County, Mr. Wikle was born May 2, 1937. He is the son of the late James Hicks and the late Marie Etta (McMahan) Wikle. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a brother Paul Wikle, and two sisters, Annie Robinson, and Mary Ann Carter. Dean worked as a heavy equipment operator for the Department of Transportation. He loved woodworking, small engine repair and fishing. He was a member of Love's Chapel Methodist Church. He is survived by his wife of almost 53 years: Margaret Anne (Henson) Wikle; a son, James (Jim) Wikle, a grandson, Justin Wikle, two great grandchildren, Cole and Kaden Wikle; a brother, Robert (Bob) Wikle, three sisters, Doris Lillard, Ruth Metcalf, and Margaret Martin; and a host of nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, April 3, at 2:00 pm in the Love's Chapel Methodist Church in Sylva, with Rev. Ryan Snyder, Rev. Keith Ashe, and Rev. Avery Brown officiating. Burial will follow in Love's Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday evening, April 2, from 6:00 until 8:00 pm at Appalachian Funeral Services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Love's Chapel Cemetery Fund. . .