Michael (Mike) D. Tilley

Mike Tilley, age 65, of Nashville passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 18th, 2014 at his home in Nashville, MI.

Mike was born in Highland Park, MI on December 21, 1948, the son of the late Reuben William and Rose Mae (Shinavier) Tilley. He was raised in Farmington, MI and attended local schools.

Mike joined the US Navy in January 1967 and served during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in September 1970. During his time in the Navy Mike was decorated with the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one Silver Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Expert Rifleman Badge.

He was the husband of Linda (Ellsworth) Tilley. The couple met at the restaurant Linda was working, and were married December 17, 1971 in Livonia, MI. They started their lives together in the Southfield area, but Mike wanted his children to grow up in the country and took a job transfer to the Lansing area. On July 8, 1977 they moved to the Nashville area where they raised their family together.

In 1975, Mike began work as a Refrigeration Technician with the Kroger Co. where he worked faithfully until retiring in 2008.

Mike truly enjoyed his retirement, spending his free time fishing and restoring antique motorcycles. Mike loved to fish all the different lakes in Barry County but was especially fond of Leach Lake where he had his ‘secret spot’. Over the years he has restored several vintage motorcycles including his latest project, his 1966 Honda Scrambler. To complete these projects, Mike enlisted the help of his daughter who assisted in locating those hard to find rare parts often coming from all over the world. Mike loved to just be "at home" whether working in his garden, caring for his lawn, or spending time with his family and friends

Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years Linda, his daughter, Tanya (Jeremy) Eldridge, two sons Greg & Mick Tilley, a brother, Patrick (Linda) Tilley, his grandchildren Danielle (Will) Leslie, Jessica & Samantha Tilley, Reuben Eldridge, a great granddaughter on the way, and numerous nieces and nephews throughout the world.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Fort Custer National Cemetery at 12 Noon on Friday, May 23rd, 2014 with full military honors. Following the service the family will receive visitors at a memorial luncheon at the VFW Post 8260 in Nashville beginning at 2 pm.

Memorial contributions can be made to the VFW Post 8260 in Nashville.

Funeral services have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville.