Juleen "Doc" Tiller Obituary (2011)

Juleen "Doc" E. Tiller, age 84, of Menomonie, died Saturday November 12, 2011 at Mayo Clinic Health Systems in Menomonie. Doc was born in 1927 in Menomonie WI to Edwin and Alma (Dennis) Tiller, growing up in North Menomonie. In 1944, he joined the United States Marines Corp and served in WWII, and was stationed in Japan until he was honorably discharged in 1947 and returned to Menomonie. He resumed high school and graduated in 1948. Doc then attended Dunwoody Technical Institute, graduating in 1950. He then started Tiller Refrigeration, later adding electrical to his services offered. In 1959, Doc married Twila Henderson at St. Katherine's Lutheran Church near Rusk. During their 52 year marriage they had three children: John, Julie, and Paul. Doc was a lifelong member of Christ Lutheran Church and was an active member of Kiwanis. In 2002, he received their highest honor, the George F. Hixson Fellowship award. He was an avid sportsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, and berry picking. In the spring, he tapped maple trees and made syrup, most of which he gave away. One of his favorite pastimes was his summer fishing trip to Canada. Doc was a loving husband and father. He was a practical joker and a successful businessman who served his community for over 50 years and he will be greatly missed by many. Doc is survived by his wife Twila, their daughter Julie (Jim) Burke of Sioux Falls, SD, son Paul (Tyler) of Eau Claire, grandson Gunner Tiller of Eau Claire, his sister Irene (Del) Dietsche of River Falls, WI, and good friend Bert Thorson of Menomonie. He was preceded in death by his son John, parents, and sisters Marna Benson and Sharon Benson. Memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 16, 2011 at Christ Lutheran Church in Menomonie with Pastor Geoff Scott officiating. Military Honors will be conducted by Menomonie Veterans Honor Guard. There will be a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.