Merle A. Tillman, 81, of Rockford, IL, journeyed home to his Lord and Savior, March 30, 2022. Merle was born February 14, 1941, son to Edward Mathias and Catherine Mary (Kipp) Tillman, in Lawler, Iowa. He served in the Navy and married his sweetheart, Pamela Wager, on April 20, 1968, in Belvidere. He worked for Chrysler for 40 years before retiring. He was a member of St. James Church in Belvidere and The Knights of Columbus. Merle was a fan of the Rockford Ice Hogs, Cubs and the Bears. He loved his television often watching old Westerns. His greatest pride and joy was being a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He made sure his family had what they needed. He was a very selfless, giving man.

Merle is loved and will be missed by his sons, James (Michelle Landon) Tillman and Anthony Tillman; sisters, Phyllis and Alvera; brother, Bob; and grandchildren, Miles, Cooper, Caroline and Annabelle.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Pamela; siblings, Dorothy, John, Margarite, Marcellus, Herbert; and infant son, Joseph.

A visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m., Monday, April 4, 2022, at Anderson Funeral and Cremation Services, 218 W. Hurlbut Ave., Belvidere, IL 61008. Rosary with Deacon Steven and Knights of Columbus at 6:30 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, April 5, 2022, at St. James Church in Belvidere. Burial at Highland Garden of Memories. Memorial contributions in his honor to the family. A memorial will be established at a later date to be determined by family.