The HUGS Project of Elkhart

Celebrating the life of George Tilley

May 28, 1928 – Dec. 24, 2011
georgetilley

GOSHEN — George Tilley spent his first Christmas in his new heavenly home after relenting to his three-month battle with pancreatic/liver cancer on Saturday morning. He lived a godly life of respect and honor in all areas of his life.

George grew up in Goshen with his parents, George E. Tilley Sr. and Agnes (Cripe) Tilley, who both preceded him in death; and a brother, Herbert (Janice) Tilley, who resides in Morrisville, Vt. He graduated from Goshen High School in 1946. His bride of 63 years was Wilma (Ladd) Tilley.

He was the father of four children, Doug (Pam) Tilley of Venice, Fla., Debra (Don) Kauffman of Middlebury, Paula (Tom) Klunder of Goshen and Scott (Tamara) Tilley of Middlebury. He had nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

An experienced welder and metal worker, George was co-owner of Tilley Welding for a number of years before going to work for Mittler Supply in Elkhart as an outside sales representative. He retired in 1993 and did periodic consulting in the years following. He served as a volunteer on the Jefferson Township Fire Department for nearly 20 years. He served on the Middlebury School Board for nine years. He was a member of River Oaks Community Church
and volunteered at Church Community Services and with the HUGS Project of Elkhart County.

Indicative of his dedication to serve and care for others, George’s body has been donated to Indiana University School of Medicine to further the learning of aspiring medical professionals.

A celebration of George’s life will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at River Oaks Community Church, officiated by Pastor Tim Rowland. A time to greet family will follow this service of celebration.