Joseph M. Wilkie

Joseph M. Wilkie, Sr., known to family and friends as "Chief", and the beloved husband of Maureen (Cogger) Wilkie, a resident of Dracut, died on Wednesday February 5, 2014 at the Lowell General Hospital with his family by his side. He was 73.
Born in Methuen on May 30, 1940, he was the son of the late Michael and Stella (Gurka) Wilkie.
Chief was educated in Lawrence and attended Burdette School of Business prior to entering the Army during the Vietnam War.
Upon his return from the Army, Joe worked as a mover at his family business, J. Wilkie & Sons Movers. In 1981 He retired from the moving business and worked for the Lawrence Housing Authority, retiring in 2001.
Joe was a member and Past Exalted Ruler of the Lawrence Lodge of Elks #65. He was also a member of the Dracut American Legion Post 25.
Chief enjoyed his coin collection, trips to Las Vegas and Foxwoods Resort. He also enjoyed puttering around in his garage. Joe was a local sports enthusiast and also enjoyed rooting for the San Francisco 49ers. He liked to golf and to attend local golf tournaments. Joe also enjoyed the beach and visiting the beaches at Seabrook, NH and Portland Maine. He enjoyed cookouts and grilling, but most of all for Joe, his family was paramount to him, especially his grandchildren. He loved to attend their sporting events and just spend time with them. Family and friends describe Chief as a thoughtful and considerate person who was honest and sincere. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Surviving him besides his wife of 44 years are his children and their spouses, Colleen of Peabody, Michael and Bonnie Wilkie of Gardner, Christine and Timothy Germain of Dracut, Joseph, Jr. and Erin, and John Wilkie all of Dracut; six grandchildren, Kadyn and Kylie Germain, Conner, Chase, Joey and Charlie Wilkie; brother in law and sisters in law, John and Barbara Cogger of North Andover, Nancy Pagliaro of Revere; and several nieces and nephews.