Michael “Mike” Eugene Tillotson was born on August 28, 1944, in Creston, Iowa to Maurice Don Tillotson and Nellie Marie (Hess) Tillotson. He passed from this life on Saturday, August 13, 2022, in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the age of 77 years. Mike grew up in Holton, Kansas and graduated with the Holton High School Class of 1963. After high school he enlisted and served his country honorably for 24 years in the United States Navy until his retirement as Chief Petty Officer in 1985. Mike was married on February 25, 1967, in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Patti Lou (Krantz) Tillotson. He was a faithful member of St. Henry Catholic Church since moving to Owasso, Oklahoma in 1985. After retirement from the Navy, he was employed by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission for 21 years and retired in 2008. Mike was the First Acting Commander for the Owasso VFW Post 7180 from 1986 1989. In his spare time, Mike enjoyed rebuilding cars, spending time with his family at Grand Lake, and being involved with cowboy action shooting where he was known as “Salty Chief”. He also enjoyed the Hot Rod Power Tour where he participated with his son for the past 23 years.
Those he leaves behind who hold many cherished memories include:
His Wife of over 55 years;
Patti Tillotson
2 Children;
Shawn Tillotson and wife Keri
Shanin Kenney and husband Dan
2 Grandchildren;
Rylee and Hayden Tillotson
He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Nellie, and his sister, Sherry.
A memorial service with full Military honors will be held 10 a.m. on Friday, August 26, 2022, at the St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso with Father Matt La Chance officiating. Services and arrangements were entrusted to Mowery Funeral Service in Owasso.
